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
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.
Carter, at the time, was a stickler. Jack Crosbie, Rolling Stone, 17 Mar. 2026 Yes, some sticklers would insist that greatly should never stand between to and excel. Jake Lundberg, The Atlantic, 13 Mar. 2026 Mike Bibby is a stickler for details in a sport that has defined him and often consumes him. Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 16 Jan. 2026 Our mother had been a stickler for our family lunches every Sunday. Literary Hub, 19 Sep. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stickler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stickler. Accessed 31 Mar. 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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