trifling
UK: ˈtraɪflɪŋ | US: ˈtraɪflɪŋ
adj. of little importance; insignificant
adj. frivolous or trivial in character
v. (archaic) present participle of trifle (to treat something as unimportant)
trifling = trifle<small matter> + ing<adjective suffix>
- trifle: From Middle English trufle (deception, nonsense), likely from Old French trufle (mockery), of uncertain origin. Possibly imitative of trivial talk.
- ing: Suffix forming present participles or adjectives indicating a quality or action.
Etymology Origin:
The word trifling traces back to the notion of "smallness" or "unimportance," evolving from playful mockery (trufle) in Old French. The suffix -ing turns the noun trifle into an adjective, emphasizing insignificance or frivolity. The logic reflects how minor matters (trifles) are dismissed as unworthy of attention.
She dismissed his concerns as trifling and unworthy of discussion.
The cost was trifling compared to the benefits.
He spent the afternoon on trifling pursuits instead of working.
Her trifling remarks annoyed everyone in the meeting.
The judge ruled the evidence trifling and inadmissible.