Martinet: meaning, definitions and examples
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martinet
[ ˈmɑːrtɪnɪt ]
strict disciplinarian
A martinet is a strict disciplinarian, especially in the armed forces. They are known for their rigid adherence to rules and regulations, often enforcing them without flexibility.
Synonyms
authoritarian, taskmaster, tyrant
Examples of usage
- The sergeant major was a martinet, making sure that every soldier followed the rules to the letter.
- His father was a martinet when it came to curfew, never allowing his children to be a minute late.
harsh critic
In a more general sense, a martinet can also refer to a harsh critic who is overly focused on pointing out flaws and mistakes.
Synonyms
critic, faultfinder, nitpicker
Examples of usage
- She was a martinet when it came to proofreading, never missing a single error in the text.
- His boss was a martinet, always criticizing his work without acknowledging any of his accomplishments.
Translations
Translations of the word "martinet" in other languages:
🇵🇹 disciplinador
🇮🇳 अनुशासनप्रिय व्यक्ति
🇩🇪 Peitschenmeister
🇮🇩 penjaga disiplin
🇺🇦 дисциплінар
🇵🇱 dyscyplinator
🇯🇵 しつけ役
🇫🇷 disciplinateur
🇪🇸 disciplinario
🇹🇷 disiplinci
🇰🇷 규율 잡는 사람
🇸🇦 منضبط
🇨🇿 disciplinář
🇸🇰 disciplinár
🇨🇳 纪律严明的人
🇸🇮 disciplinski
🇮🇸 aga
🇰🇿 тәртіпті ұстаушы
🇬🇪 დისციპლინარი
🇦🇿 intizamçı
🇲🇽 disciplinario
Word origin
The word 'martinet' originated from the name of Jean Martinet, a French drillmaster who was known for his strict adherence to military discipline in the 17th century. Over time, the term evolved to refer to any strict disciplinarian, whether in the military or in a more general context.