punctilio

[ puhngk-til-ee-oh ]

noun

, plural punc·til·i·os

1. a fine point, particular, or detail, as of conduct, ceremony, or procedure.
2. strictness or exactness in the observance of formalities or amenities.

punctilio

/ pʌŋkˈtɪlɪˌəʊ /

noun

1. strict attention to minute points of etiquette
2. a petty formality or fine point of etiquette

Word History and Origins

Origin of punctilio¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; alteration of Italian puntiglio, from Spanish puntillo, diminutive of punto, from Latin pūnctum point

Word History and Origins

Origin of punctilio¹

C16: from Italian puntiglio small point, from punto point, from Latin punctum point

Example Sentences

Accept the situation, and fight for yourself, taking your advantage where you can, and casting away scruples of punctilio.

From Project Gutenberg

Never did a more foolish punctilio bring about so terrible a result.

From Project Gutenberg

Absorbed in reflections of such unspeakable moment, I had no leisure to heed the niceties of punctilio.

From Project Gutenberg

The doctor greeted William cordially, and with that punctilio that a man offers to one whom he recognizes as his superior.

From Project Gutenberg

But I will not stand on punctilio when it is a question of trying to save a Penreath of Twelvetrees from the gallows.

From Project Gutenberg