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Showing or demanding excessive care or attention to detail.
synonyms:meticulousfussy
The word 'fastidious' comes from the Latin 'fastidiosus', which means 'full of disdain' or 'difficult to please'. It made its way into the English language in the late 16th century.
The term is often used in everyday language to describe someone who is very particular about their preferences or standards, such as in personal grooming, work, or art.
While not used in everyday casual conversation, it appears in literature, discussions about personality traits, and in professional settings.
Her fastidious nature made her an excellent editor, ensuring that every detail was perfect.
He was so fastidious about cleanliness that he would disinfect his phone after every call.
The artist was fastidious in her approach, spending hours perfecting each brushstroke.
Fastidious is a delightful word that captures the essence of being overly meticulous or hard to please. With roots tracing back to Latin, it reflects a long-standing appreciation for precision and detail. Often used in creative and professional contexts, being called fastidious can be a compliment, highlighting one's dedication to excellence. However, it can also imply a level of fussiness that might drive others a bit crazy!