fussy

adjective

ˈfə-sē 

fussier; fussiest

1

: easily upset : irritable

2

: overly decorative

a fussy wallpaper pattern

3

a

: requiring or giving close attention to details

fussy bookkeeping procedures

b

: revealing a sometimes extreme concern for niceties : fastidious, picky

fussily

ˈfə-sə-lē 

adverb

fussiness

ˈfə-sē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• crabby
• cranky
• grouchy
• grumpy
• querulous

Examples of fussy in a Sentence

I'm not fussy about where we eat.

The room was cluttered and fussy.

Recent Examples on the Web

This time around, Meghan ditched the trailing over-skirt, the fussy updo, and the pointy shoes for a take that felt cooler and more modern—as well as commendably conscious. —Kerry McDermott, Vogue, 20 Dec. 2024

When selecting one for your child, consider their age and skill level, as intricate, small pieces or fussy details can lead to frustration rather than fun. —Elizabeth Kocan, Parents, 21 Nov. 2024

Next up was a round of oysters—fresh and flavorful, with a classic tangy and bright mignonette that wasn’t overly fussy or produced. —Chelsea Frank, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

In truth, though, this is probably a conservative figure that doesn't take into account especially fussy babies or those with more complex needs. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 3a

Kids Definition

fussy

adjective

ˈfəs-ē 

fussier; fussiest

1

: inclined to complain or whine

a fussy child

2

a

: needing or giving much attention to details

a fussy job

b

: hard to please

fussy about food

fussily

ˈfəs-ə-lē 

adverb

fussiness

ˈfəs-ē-nəs 

noun