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View synonyms for niggle

niggle

[ nig-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, nig·gled, nig·gling.
  1. to criticize, especially constantly or repeatedly, in a peevish or petty way; carp:

    to niggle about the fine points of interpretation; preferring to niggle rather than take steps to correct a situation.

  2. to spend too much time and effort on inconsequential details:

    It's difficult to be meticulous and not niggle.

  3. to work ineffectively; trifle:

    to niggle with an uninteresting task.



niggle

/ ˈnɪɡəl /

verb

  1. intr to find fault continually
  2. intr to be preoccupied with details; fuss
  3. tr to irritate; worry
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


noun

  1. a slight or trivial objection or complaint
  2. a slight feeling as of misgiving, uncertainty, etc
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Derived Forms

  • ˈniggly, adjective
  • ˈniggler, noun
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Other Words From

  • niggler noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of niggle1

1610–20; < Scandinavian; compare Norwegian nigla to be penurious (ultimately < Old Norse hnøggr stingy, cognate with Old English hnēaw ); niggard
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Word History and Origins

Origin of niggle1

C16: from Scandinavian; related to Norwegian nigla. Compare niggard
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Example Sentences

Nevertheless, it still niggled Handschuh that he was a journalist with an incomplete story.

Niggle, eat in peace and thankfulness; for I have once more saved you from the abyss of matrimony.

The fact is, Mr. Niggle, we dont wish to wound your feelings.

Mr. Niggle, the gentleman with whom you saw me yesterday, is my friend.

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nigger heavenniggling