niggle

[nig-uh l]

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verb (used without object), nig·gled, nig·gling.

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.

to spend too much time and effort on inconsequential details: It's difficult to be meticulous and not niggle.

to work ineffectively; trifle: to niggle with an uninteresting task.

Origin of niggle

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

Related formsnig·gler, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Related Words for niggle

cavil, moan, grumble, grouse, carp, object, nag, argue, complain, fuss

Examples from the Web for niggle

Historical Examples of niggle

The fact is, Mr. Niggle, we dont wish to wound your feelings.
Single Life
John Baldwin Buckstone
Mr. Niggle, the gentleman with whom you saw me yesterday, is my friend.
Single Life
John Baldwin Buckstone
Niggle, eat in peace and thankfulness; for I have once more saved you from the abyss of matrimony.
Single Life
John Baldwin Buckstone

British Dictionary definitions for niggle

niggle

verb

(intr) to find fault continually

(intr) to be preoccupied with details; fuss

(tr) to irritate; worry

noun

a slight or trivial objection or complaint

a slight feeling as of misgiving, uncertainty, etc

Derived Formsniggler, nounniggly, adjective

Word Origin for niggle

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

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

Word Origin and History for niggle

1590s (implied in niggling), possibly from a Scandinavian source (cf. Norwegian dialectal nigla "be busy with trifles"), perhaps related to source of niggard. Related: Niggled; niggling; niggler.