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control freak

American  
  1. a person having a strong need for control over people or situations.


control freak British  

noun

  1. a person with an obsessive need to be in control of what is happening

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of control freak

1975–80

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s an “Odd Couple”-type scenario, where Barb, a recently retired accountant and control freak, joins the committee as a volunteer and is aghast at Kath’s touchy-feely vibes and disorganization.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 18, 2024

A control freak, the 51-year-old has been described as 'charming', an 'incredible coach', but also 'divisive'.

From BBC • Oct. 15, 2024

Are you a risk taker or are you more of a control freak?

From Salon • Aug. 9, 2024

Toomey, who managed to get to safety after the crash, was described as a "control freak with a savage temper" by Ms Bell's mother, the court heard.

From BBC • Aug. 2, 2024

It must suck to get to thirty thousand feet and realize that your pilot is a control freak nutjob.

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King

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