1 Harsh and strict treatment in the military for cadets is an example of rigor. 2  Freezing weather and ice are examples of the rigors of winter. 3  Difficult and challenging academic courses are an example of academic rigor.  harshness or severity; specif.,
The suffix-lysis means to breakdown; separation; destruction; or loosening.
lysis. 1  Immunology, Biochemistry. the dissolution or destruction of cells by lysins. 2  Medicine/Medical. the gradual recession of a disease. Compare crisis (def 4).