stickler

noun

stick·​ler ˈsti-k(ə-)lər 

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

The full Chiefs team has not reported for camp yet, but Bieniemy, who is known for being a stickler for details, already has impressed the rookies. — Jeff Fedotin, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

Yet Rodriguez isn’t a stickler for showing up to meetings herself, ranking near the bottom of her colleagues for attendance. — Los Angeles Times, 25 July 2026

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

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stickler

• tickler

Kids Definition

stickler

noun

stick·​ler ˈstik-(ə-)lər 

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