- Today's Word
Punctilious
punk-TIL-ee-uhs
Definition
- (adjective) Showing great attention to detail or correct behavior, particularly in matters of etiquette or formality.
Example
The punctilious host ensured that every place setting was arranged with perfect precision before the guests arrived.
Fun Fact
“Punctilious” comes from the Italian puntiglio, meaning “a fine point” or “scruple,” which itself stems from the Latin punctum, meaning “point.” It is often associated with individuals who meticulously follow rules of decorum, from military officers to old-fashioned gentlemen. F. Scott Fitzgerald famously used the word to describe Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, emphasizing Gatsby’s meticulous manners and carefully curated persona.
(adjective) Unwilling to spend money or use resources; extremely frugal to the point of stinginess.
He was so parsimonious that he kept the thermostat at 58 degrees all winter and wore two sweaters instead.