Pettifog

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈpÉ›t.iËŒfÉ’É¡/

Origin

Back-formation from {{3}}

Full definition of pettifog

Verb

1. To quibble over trivial matters; nitpickDon't pettifog or we will soon grow weary.
2. To do a petty business as a lawyer, or carry out law business in a petty or tricky way.
• S. ButlerHe is a common barreter for his pleasure, that takes no money, but pettifogs gratis.

Synonyms

• See

Related terms

• pettifogger