• (British) IPA: /ˈstɪk.lə/

stickler (plural sticklers)

1. (now only Cornwall) A referee or adjudicator at a fight, wrestling match, duel, etc. who ensures fair play. [from 16th c.]
   • 1603, Michel de Montaigne, chapter 27, in John Florio, transl., The Essayes, […], book II, printed at London: By Val[entine] Simmes for Edward Blount […], OCLC 946730821 ↗:

     In ancient time they were wont to employ third persons as sticklers, to see no treachery or disorder were used, and to beare witnes of the combates successe.

   • quote en

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2. Someone who insistently advocates for something. [from 17th c.]

   Synonyms: dogmatist, formalist, pedant, traditionalist

   Lexicographers are sticklers for correct language.

   • 1713, Jonathan Swift, A Preface to Bishop Burnet's Introduction

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• stickle

• French: tatillon, pointilleux
• German: Pedant, Verfechter
• Italian: pignolo
• Russian: приве́рженец

1. Surname