stickler

noun

stick·​ler ˈsti-k(ə-)lər How to pronounce stickler (audio)
1
: one who insists on exactness or completeness in the observance of something
a stickler for the rules
2
: something that baffles or puzzles : poser

Examples of stickler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adams, the first Black woman to receive the lieutenant colonel rank, was a stickler for a pristine uniform. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 12 Dec. 2024 Between the lines: When the job market was hot, employers were afraid of losing talent by being sticklers on seemingly minor rules, Erin Grau, cofounder of Charter, a future of work media firm, tells Axios. Emily Peck, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024 Just to show that the designers were sticklers for detail, the official British registration plate reads AU 1 – the same as the Phantom in the movie. David Szondy, New Atlas, 30 Oct. 2024 Not to be a stickler about this sort of thing, but the article came out last night. Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 15 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for stickler 

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stickler was in 1799

Dictionary Entries Near stickler

Cite this Entry

“Stickler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stickler. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

stickler

noun
stick·​ler ˈstik-(ə-)lər How to pronounce stickler (audio)
1
: a person who insists on exactness or completeness in the observance of something
a stickler for the rules
2
: something that baffles or puzzles

More from Merriam-Webster on stickler

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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