Martinet (en. Martinet)

/maʁ.ti.nɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

A whip made of several thongs, used as a disciplinary instrument.

The teacher used a martinet to discipline the students.

Le professeur a utilisé un martinet pour discipliner les élèves.

A person who enjoys punishing severely or who applies the rules strictly.

He is a real martinet, he tolerates no infraction.

C'est un vrai martinet, il ne tolère aucune infraction.

Of uncertain origin, the word might come from the proper name 'Martin', elevated to the rank of an instrument or associated with punishment.

to be a martinet

To be a very strict or rigorous person in enforcing rules.

être un martinet

educational martinet

Referring to a teacher or a method of teaching that is very strict.

martinet de l'éducation

discipline

The practice of training individuals to behave according to rules.

discipline

punishment

The act of inflicting suffering or administering punishment.

punition

regulation

A set of rules governing a group or organization.

règlement

A person who demonstrates excessive authority.

This principal is a martinet; he lets nothing slide.

Ce directeur est un martinet, il ne laisse rien passer.

An instrument used excessively for punishment.

He used the martinet for every little infraction; it’s abusive.

Il a utilisé le martinet pour chaque petite infraction, c'est abusif.