Pronunciation: [ɡˌə͡ʊ ɹˈɪd͡ʒɪd] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "go rigid" in IPA phonetic transcription is /ɡo ˈrɪdʒɪd/. In this phrase, the "g" sound is pronounced like in "go." The "o" sound is longer than the "u" and is pronounced like in "no." The "r" sound is pronounced with a slight roll of the tongue. The "i" sound is pronounced like in "kid." The "d" sound is pronounced like in "dog." Overall, the phrase "go rigid" means to become stiff and unyielding.
The phrase "go rigid" refers to the sudden and complete stiffening or freezing of one's body or muscles due to fear, shock, or extreme stress. It is an idiom used to describe a person's physical reaction, typically when faced with a threatening or shocking situation. When someone "goes rigid," their body becomes rigid and immobile, often as a reflexive response to a perceived danger or intense emotional state.
This idiom derives from the literal meaning of the word "rigid," which denotes a state of stiffness or inflexibility. When a person "goes rigid," their body becomes unyielding and unbending, as if becoming locked into place. This reaction is a defense mechanism triggered by the body's instinctive fight-or-flight response. It can manifest as a constricted posture, tensed muscles, or even a completely frozen stance.
The phrase "go rigid" is often associated with fear, as it is commonly observed in situations that evoke genuine terror or panic. The sudden loss of control over body movements reflects the overwhelming emotional and physiological response that the individual is experiencing at that moment. However, it should be noted that going rigid can also occur in response to extreme stress or shock, where the body automatically enters a state of temporary paralysis or stiffness.
Overall, "go rigid" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an immediate and involuntary physical response to fear, shock, or stress, resulting in the body becoming completely stiff and immovable.
The word "rigid" comes from the Latin word "rigidus", which means stiff, unbending, or rigid. Its etymology can be traced back to the Latin verb "rigere", meaning to be stiff or stiffen. The word "go" in "go rigid" is used as an auxiliary verb to indicate a change of state or action. When combined, "go rigid" signifies a sudden or abrupt stiffening or becoming rigid.
