Pronunciation: [pˈɛdənt] (IPA) 
Pedant is spelled as /ˈpɛdənt/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word is derived from the French word "pédant", which means a schoolmaster or teacher. A pedant is someone who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules, often exhibiting a narrowly academic or ostentatious approach. It is important to note the silent "a" in the spelling of pedant, which can often be confusing for non-native speakers of English.
A pedant is a person who excessively focuses on minor details and rules, often displaying a pretentious and condescending attitude towards others. The term "pedant" is generally used to describe someone who displays an unnecessary and annoying emphasis on correct behavior, accuracy, or knowledge, while neglecting the more important aspects or the broader picture.
Pedants often exhibit an insatiable desire to showcase their own intellectualism or expertise, frequently engaging in behaviors such as correcting others' grammar or pronunciation, flaunting trivial or obscure knowledge, and adhering rigidly to regulations or conventions. Their intent is not solely to educate or enlighten, but to assert superiority or establish themselves as authorities.
Although pedants may possess a considerable amount of knowledge and expertise in their respective fields, their excessive preoccupation with being "right" tends to overshadow their capacity for genuine understanding or empathetic communication. They often prioritize being technically accurate over fostering meaningful connections or engaging in productive discussions.
Engaging with a pedant can be frustrating and tedious for others due to their tendency to nitpick and correct even the slightest errors. Their pedantry can stifle creativity, hinder progress, and discourage open-mindedness. Additionally, their constant need to assert intellectual dominance can create an atmosphere of tension or intimidation.
Overall, a pedant is widely regarded as an individual who, despite possessing knowledge or expertise, focuses too heavily on minor details, displays an overbearing attitude, and lacks the ability to prioritize more important aspects or engage in meaningful dialogue.
One who makes a vain and ostentatious display of his learning.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "pedant" comes from the French word "pedant", which originally referred to a teacher or schoolmaster. This French term was derived from the Italian word "pedante", which also meant "teacher" or "schoolmaster". The Italian term came from the Latin word "paedagogantem", which meant "teacher" or "instructor", derived from the Greek word "paidagōgos" meaning "slave who led boys to school". Over time, the term "pedant" started to take on a negative connotation and became associated with someone who is overly strict, nitpicky, or excessively focused on formal rules and trivial details.
