Stickler

Noun

Definition: A person who insists on the importance of something and seeks to enforce strict adherence to rules, standards, or principles.

Synonyms: Perfectionist, Purist, Nitpicker

Antonyms: Lax, Tolerant, Lenient

Examples:

John is a stickler for punctuality; he always arrives 10 minutes early for every meeting.
The professor is a stickler for grammar and deducts points for any spelling or punctuation mistakes.

Mnemonics:

Think of someone sticking to the rules like glue, always ticking the boxes.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "stickler" originated in the late 16th century from the verb "stickle" meaning 'contend' or 'argue'. The sense of "stickler" as a person who insists on precise adherence to rules or standards developed in the early 17th century.

Historical Usage:

The term was first used in the context of legal disputes, where it meant someone who raises a point of contention or insists on a particular interpretation of a law or regulation.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Make no bones about it"

Explanation:

This expression means to be straightforward or direct without any hesitation. It emphasizes that the person has no reservations or doubts about what they are saying or doing. It is often used when referring to someone who is a stickler for honesty and transparency.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing a stickler with a perfectionist.

Explanation:

While a stickler can be a perfectionist, not all sticklers seek perfection in everything. Sticklers often focus on specific rules or standards and strive for strict adherence to those particular aspects, whereas perfectionists strive for flawlessness in all aspects of a task or endeavor.