Words / C2

maht-i-NET/ˌmɑːtɪˈnet/

A martinet is a rigid disciplinarian, after a French drillmaster: a martinet about punctuality. Stickler is a close cousin (often of detail); tyrant is harsher. Martin is a name — not the point. Do not call a fair invigilator a martinet for enforcing the published rule.

Meaning

A person who demands strict obedience to rules; a rigid disciplinarian.

Examples

• “A martinet on commas is useful; a martinet on lunch is not.”
• “A martinet on referencing saved the journal; a martinet on who may laugh did not.”
• “A stickler loves a rule; a martinet loves obedience. Tyrant adds cruelty. Enforcing a posted exam rule is not the insult.”

Good to know

A rigid disciplinarian. Close: stickler (detail). Harsher: tyrant. Historical: French drill. Fair enforcement ≠ martinet.

Near in meaning

stickler

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