Definition of STICKLER

stickler

Plural: sticklers

Noun

  • A person who insists on absolute adherence to rules or standards.
  • someone who insists on something
    • "a stickler for promptness"
  • A referee or adjudicator at a fight, wrestling match, duel, etc. who ensures fair play.
  • Someone who insistently advocates for something, especially for strict observance of a formal rule.

Examples

  • Lexicographers are sticklers for correct language.
  • My opponent is a STICKLER for rules, always checking for valid words and challenges in Words With Friends.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English stighteler, stytelere, equivalent to stickle + -er. The judges at Cornish wrestling matches do indeed carry sticks which serve for signalling and as a badge of their office. This practice has evolved from holding swords and then swordsticks.

Scrabble Score: 14

stickler: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
stickler: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
stickler: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 16

stickler: valid Words With Friends Word