Quote:
Originally Posted by Benzgirl
What is a "niggle"?
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nig·gle /ˈnɪgəl/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[nig-uhl]
–verb (used without object), -gled, -gling. 1. to criticize, esp. 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.
2. to spend too much time and effort on inconsequential details: It's difficult to be meticulous and not niggle.
3. to work ineffectively; trifle: to niggle with an uninteresting task.
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[Origin: 1610–20; < Scand; cf. Norw nigla to be penurious (ult. < ON hnøggr stingy, c. OE hnéaw); cf. niggard]
—Related forms
niggler, noun
I've seen it used before, but only by fiction writers.
Hybrid Mode
