Martinet
/ˌmɑːrtɪˈnɛt/
nounC2
Definition
A martinet is someone who is very strict about rules and discipline. This person expects others to obey rules exactly and often does not allow any exceptions. The term usually describes a person who is rigid and strict, especially in places like schools, the military, or workplaces.
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See It in Action
A person who strictly enforces rules and discipline
- •The coach was a martinet who demanded perfect attendance and effort.
- •She was known as a martinet in the office, always checking every detail.
- •The military captain acted as a martinet, expecting total obedience from his soldiers.
Someone who is rigid and harsh about discipline
- •The teacher’s martinet style made the classroom very strict and quiet.
- •He was a martinet about punctuality, never allowing late arrivals.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "martinet" like "teacher" (A1 word), but a teacher who is very strict and does not allow any mistakes or exceptions.
- ✓Picture a person standing with arms crossed, watching carefully to make sure everyone follows every rule perfectly.
- ✓It's the feeling you get when someone watches you closely and corrects every small mistake you make.
- ✓Sounds like "martin-ET" → imagine a person named Martin who is very serious and says "No exceptions!"
- ✓In stories or movies, a martinet is like the strict school principal or the military officer who always enforces discipline.
- ✓NOT like "friendly teacher" (kind and flexible), a martinet is strict and serious.
- ✓NOT like "leader" who inspires gently; a martinet leads with strict rules and punishment.
- ✓NOT like "rule breaker" who ignores rules; a martinet enforces rules strongly.
Try Other Words
- •Strict person: someone who demands rules be followed (Use when you want a simple phrase for martinet)
- •Taskmaster: a person who gives strict orders and expects hard work (Use when focusing on work or effort)
- •Authoritarian: someone who controls others with strict rules and power (Use when emphasizing control and power)
- •Stickler: a person who insists on exact rules or details (Use when focusing on small details and exactness)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no clear prefix or suffix, the whole word is a name)
- •Etymology: From French "martinet," originally the name of a strict French army officer, later used for any strict disciplinarian
- •Historical development: The word came from a real person known for strict discipline in the 17th century; over time, it became a general term for strict rule enforcers
- •Modern usage: Used to describe people who are very strict about rules in schools, workplaces, or military settings; often with a negative or critical tone
Reflect & Connect
•Can being a martinet ever be helpful or necessary? When might strict rules improve a situation?
•How do you feel when someone acts like a martinet? Can strictness sometimes stop creativity or happiness?
Fill in the blanks
1.The martinet demanded that every student ___ to the dress code without ___.
2.Being a martinet means not allowing ___ or ___ from the rules.
3.Unlike a friendly teacher, a martinet often uses ___ to keep control.
4.The soldiers respected the martinet because he ___ discipline and ___ no excuses.
5.When someone is a martinet, they usually ___ strict rules ___ others.
6.The martinet’s style can make people feel ___ or ___ because of the high pressure.
7.A martinet is different from a leader who ___ rules gently; instead, they ___ strict obedience.