red tapeworm
/rɛd ˈteɪpwəːm/humorous and depreciative
noun
A person who adheres excessively to official rules and formalities; a red-tapist. Also (chiefly with the): red tape, excessive bureaucracy.
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Charles Dickens (1812–1870), novelist. From red tape + worm, punningly after tapeworm.
- lettermonger
- letter of comfort
- letter of credence
- letter of credit
- letter office
- letter of intent
- letter of marque
- letter opener
- letter ornament
- letter paper
- letter-perfect
- letter plant
- letter plate
- letter post
- letterpress
- letter punch
- letter-quality
- letter rack
- letter receiver
- letter recommendatory
- letter-scale
- letterset
- letter slot
- letters missive
- letters of administration