An official who strictly adheres to rules and regulations. See Health and Safety.
Jobsworth
Example Sentences
"That's a proper Jobsworth, that is."
"I've never seen such a Jobsworth in all my life."
Etymology & History
British term for official who rigidly follows rules. From phrase 'It's more than my job's worth' (to break rules). 1970s emergence. Bureaucratic petty official stereotype. Very British bureaucratic frustration.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
1970s
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Formal
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
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