straight-laced

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.

Now, he is reportedly looking to marry the straight-laced German firm with its flashy American offshoot.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Cornyn, by contrast, is a straight-laced institutional conservative who has represented Texas in the Senate since 2002 and built deep ties with the state's donor class and Republican leadership in Washington.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

In 2004, she said, Capriglione came into the club where she was working and stood out as “a very straight-laced businessman.”

From Salon • Jul. 26, 2025

“It’s a bonus when I’m able to stretch myself and feel like I’m being challenged,” Poulter says of his character, the most straight-laced figure in the film, but imbued by Poulter with a surprising vulnerability.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2025

No—Dave Myler was a good sort—one of the best—but he was a bit straight-laced, and old-fashioned—especially since he had taken a wife—and after all, every man has a right to do his best for himself.

From The Borough Treasurer by Fletcher, J. S. (Joseph Smith)