nitpick

UK: ˈnɪt.pɪk | US: ˈnɪt.pɪk

Definition

  1. vt. to criticize or focus on insignificant details, often excessively

  2. vi. to engage in petty criticism

Structure
nit <small louse egg>pick <select>
Etymology

nitpick = nit<small louse egg> + pick<select>

  • nit (from Old English hnitu, meaning "louse egg"): Historically refers to tiny, hard-to-remove eggs of lice, symbolizing trivial flaws.
  • pick (from Old English pician, meaning "to peck or select"): Implies deliberate, meticulous selection.

Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in the mid-20th century, combining "nit" (emphasizing triviality) and "pick" (highlighting hyper-focused criticism). It metaphorically compares scrutinizing minor flaws to removing lice eggs—a tedious, unnecessary task. The word’s evolution reflects societal disdain for petty criticism.

Examples

  1. She tends to nitpick every minor error in the report.

  2. Stop nitpicking and focus on the bigger picture.

  3. His habit of nitpicking annoys his coworkers.

  4. Editors must balance precision without nitpicking.

  5. Nitpicking over grammar can hinder creative writing.