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Definition of nitpicking

nitpicking

/ˈnɪtˌpɪk.ɪŋ/
nit · pick · ing
Adjective:nitpicky
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nitpicking Lexical Profile

nitpicking Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The act or practice of finding minute, trivial, or unjustified faults; fussy or pedantic criticism.

Example

"Despite some minor nitpicking over the budget figures, the committee approved the proposal unanimously."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Excessively concerned with or critical of inconsequential details; fault-finding.

Example

"The reviewer made several nitpicking comments about the formatting rather than addressing the core argument."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

nit
nitpick
nitpicker
nitpicking
nitpicky
nitrate
nitric

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century, the word literally refers to the tedious task of picking 'nits' (the tiny eggs of lice) out of someone's hair, which requires intense, painstaking attention to minuscule details.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nitpicking. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nitpicking
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