Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pedant

noun
/ˈpɛd.ənt/
Definition
A person who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules or with displaying academic learning.
Examples
  • He was such a pedant that he corrected my grammar in casual conversations.
  • The professor was known as a pedant because he insisted on strict adherence to citation styles.
Meaning
A pedant often focuses on trivial details or formal rules, showing off their knowledge rather than understanding the broader context.
Synonyms
  • stickler
  • nitpicker
  • dogmatist
  • pedagogue