Definition

A person who complains or finds fault about small issues, often in a petty or trivial way.

Example

He is known as a caviler, always pointing out minor mistakes in others' work.

Conversation

I can't believe how some people can be such a caviler about everything.

Right? It's like they just want to find something to criticize.

Exactly! It's exhausting trying to please a caviler all the time.

Totally, sometimes you just have to ignore them and do your own thing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Caviler → The word originates from the French 'cavalier', meaning a horseman or knight, which itself comes from the Latin 'caballarius' (meaning horseman). A caviler is someone who is often seen as a horseman or knight, but in a more figurative sense, it refers to a person who makes trivial objections or engages in petty disputes.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'horseman' ('cavalier') who is often seen as someone who nitpicks or makes trivial objections — that's why a caviler is someone who engages in such behavior.

Visually Confused Words