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Martinet: meaning, definitions and examples

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martinet

 

[ ˈmɑːrtɪnɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,180, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.