Etymology:
The word "pedant" originates from the Italian word "pedante," which, in turn, derives from the Latin word "paedagogus."
Meaning:
A pedant is a person who is excessively concerned with formal rules, details, or accuracy, often in a narrow or inflexible manner.
Origin:
The origin of the term "pedant" can be traced to ancient Greece, where a "paedagogus" was a slave responsible for escorting and educating young children. Over time, the term came to be applied to teachers and scholars who focused excessively on trivial details and minor rules, neglecting the broader understanding of their subjects.
By the 17th century, the word "pedant" had evolved to refer to anyone who exhibited an overly formal and pedantic approach to knowledge, emphasizing minutiae and technicalities at the expense of substance and relevance.
Characteristics of a Pedant: