Stringency/ˈstrɪndʒənsi/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/2Negative Connotation Often implies dissatisfaction with somebody's strict actions or decisions. Employees grumbled about the management's stringency during evaluations. Pro Tip 2/2Intensity of Rules Used when rules or guidelines are enforced with great emphasis and little flexibility. The stringency of airport security checks creates long lines.