Stickler

usgb/ˈstɪklər/
noun

Someone who insists on something very strongly.

She is a stickler for cleanliness. She wouldn't sit on a chair if it even had the tiniest stain.
Visual representation of "stickler" - Someone who insists on something very strongly.

Often appears as...

  • stickler for rules
  • stickler for cleanliness

Usage tips

Sometimes disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "stickler"
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Contextual Emphasis

Emphasizes the degree of commitment one has to a particular standard or belief.

Illustration for Contextual Emphasis
He's a stickler for punctuality, arriving an hour early to every meeting.
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Not Always Positive

'Stickler' can imply inflexibility or stubbornness in certain contexts.

Illustration for Not Always Positive
As a stickler for detail, she sometimes misses the bigger picture.
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Impressed by Rigor

Admiration for someone's strict adherence to a principle may lead one to use the term 'stickler'.

Illustration for Impressed by Rigor
He's a stickler for quality, so we trust his product recommendations.
Visual representation of the word "Stickler"

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