stickler

noun

stick·​ler ˈsti-k(ə-)lər How to pronounce stickler (audio)
Synonyms of sticklernext
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
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Though their creative liberties leaned in different directions, neither was a particular stickler for the truth. Rosemary Counter, Vanity Fair, 6 July 2026 Aguirre is a stickler like that. Jack Lang, New York Times, 26 June 2026 Her employer may also be a stickler for being punctual. Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 20 May 2026 Though far from a revolutionary by nature, John was a stickler for law. Literary Hub, 13 May 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Stickler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stickler. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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

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