Meaning & Definition of word "Pedant"

Pedant

/ˈpɛd.ənt/

1. A person who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules, often at the expense of understanding or practicality.
- Example: The pedant in the literature class insisted that every comma was crucial to the poem's meaning.
2. A person who makes an excessive or inappropriate display of learning.
- Example: His pedant behavior during discussions made it difficult for others to engage with him.
3. One who adheres rigidly to formal rules or narrow learning.
- Example: The professor's pedant approach to teaching scared away many of her students.

From French 'pédant', originally from Italian 'pedante', which means 'teacher'.

pedantic approach:

An overly meticulous or detailed way of presenting information.

pedant to the core:

A person who is fundamentally obsessed with detail and accuracy.

obsessive:

Displaying an unhealthy focus on detail or repetition.

academic:

Relating to education and scholarship.

meticulous:

Showing great attention to detail.

Meaning: Grammar Nazi

Example Sentence: Don't be such a grammar Nazi; not everyone cares about your pedantic corrections!

Meaning: Know-it-all

Example Sentence: He's a real know-it-all when it comes to trivia; always acting like a pedant.