bicker
UK: ˈbɪkə | US: ˈbɪkər
vi. to argue about petty or trivial matters
n. a petty quarrel or argument
bicker = bick<to quarrel> + er<verb suffix>
- bick (from Middle English bikeren, meaning "to skirmish or quarrel")
- er (a frequentative verb suffix indicating repeated or ongoing action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "bicker" traces back to Middle English bikeren, likely of imitative origin, mimicking the sound of rapid, repetitive arguing (like "click-clack" or "pitter-patter"). Over time, it narrowed from general skirmishing to petty squabbling. The suffix -er reinforces the repetitive nature of such arguments.
The siblings bickered over who got the larger slice of cake.
Politicians often bicker instead of addressing serious issues.
Their constant bickering made the road trip unbearable.
The couple’s bicker about household chores never seemed to end.
Stop bickering and focus on finding a solution.