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
Mike Bibby is a stickler for details in a sport that has defined him and often consumes him.
—
Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 16 Jan. 2026
In addition to being a stickler for city ordinances, Rader was known to participate heavily in outside activities like leading his son’s Cub Scout group and doing administrative tasks at the Christ Lutheran Church.
—Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2025
Our mother had been a stickler for our family lunches every Sunday.
—Literary Hub, 19 Sep. 2025
As carry-on only travelers, Ryan and I are sticklers about efficient packing.
—Kristine Thomason, Travel + Leisure, 23 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stickler
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Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 16 Jan. 2026
In addition to being a stickler for city ordinances, Rader was known to participate heavily in outside activities like leading his son’s Cub Scout group and doing administrative tasks at the Christ Lutheran Church.
—Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2025
Our mother had been a stickler for our family lunches every Sunday.
—Literary Hub, 19 Sep. 2025
As carry-on only travelers, Ryan and I are sticklers about efficient packing.
—Kristine Thomason, Travel + Leisure, 23 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stickler
Cite this Entry
“Stickler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stickler. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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