pedantic

Definition

Excessively concerned with minor details or rules; showing off learning in a way that is annoying or boring.

Etymology

From Italian 'pedante' meaning 'schoolmaster,' possibly from Greek 'paideuein' (to teach children). Originally referred to schoolteachers who were overly strict about rules and details, later expanding to anyone who displays learning pretentiously.

Learn this word in a 5-minute lesson

Hook, Story, Wonder, Action, Wisdom — one word at a time.

Start Today's Lesson — Free

No account required. 365 lessons across 19 languages.

Translations (30 languages)

Try another word →

For Developers

Access this word programmatically via the Word Orb API. Free tier: 10,000 calls/day, no credit card.

curl https://api.wordorb.ai/api/word/pedantic View API Pricing →