nit-picking

noun

nit-pick·​ing ˈnit-ˌpi-kiŋ How to pronounce nit-picking (audio)
: minute and usually unjustified criticism

Examples of nit-picking in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
What followed was a nit-picking, photo finish of a taste test. Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 3 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

nit entry 1

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nit-picking was in 1951

Dictionary Entries Near nit-picking

Cite this Entry

“Nit-picking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nit-picking. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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