cavil
verb (used without object)
to raise irritating and trivial objections; find fault with unnecessarily (usually followed by at orabout ).
have cavilled
-
present perfectof cavil.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The tent was soon pitched, a fire of brushwood kindled and the salmon broiled to a relish that an epicure could not have cavilled at.
From Adèle Dubois A Story of the Lovely Miramichi Valley in New Brunswick by Mrs. William T. Savage
I suppose he would have cavilled at these beautiful lines in the Earl of Essex: ——Thy most inveterate soul, That looks through the foul prison of thy body.
From The Works of Henry Fielding Edited by George Saintsbury in 12 Volumes Volume 12 by George Saintsbury
These duties, however others have cavilled at them, I know you agree in them, and are persuaded of your duty therein: but where is your zeal to practise?
From An Exhortation to Peace and Unity by John Bunyan
Is it not enough for thee to have cavilled at the first page of the Old Testament on "scientific" grounds?
From Inspiration and Interpretation Seven Sermons Preached Before the University of Oxford by John William Burgon
From that moment Mr. Vanrevel's instructions to his followers were of a decorum at which not the meekest Sunday-school scholar dare have cavilled.
From The Two Vanrevels by Booth Tarkington
