Definition

A person who is overly concerned with minor details and rules, often showing off their knowledge in a way that is not practical or useful.

Example

The pedant in the class always corrected the teacher on small errors instead of focusing on the main lesson.

Conversation

Have you ever met someone who is such a pedant?

Yeah, those types can be really annoying sometimes.

Right? They always focus on the smallest details instead of the bigger picture.

Exactly! It makes conversations feel so tedious.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pedant → It originates from the Italian word 'pedante', meaning a teacher or a schoolmaster, which itself comes from 'pedare' (meaning to teach). The word 'pedant' refers to someone who is overly concerned with formal rules and details, often in a way that is ostentatious or pretentious.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'teacher' ('pedante') who is overly focused on rules and details — that's why a pedant is someone who emphasizes trivial points.

Visually Confused Words