Definition

Someone who is very particular about details and often hard to please.

Example

My pernickety friend always insists on having everything just right.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Why are you being so pernickety about your food choices?

I just want everything to be perfect, you know?

But sometimes it's okay to relax and enjoy things as they are.

True, I guess I just get a bit too pernickety sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pernickety → This word originates from the dialectal English term 'pernickety', which is believed to be derived from the word 'particular' (meaning specific or detailed) and the suffix '-y' (indicating a quality). The term describes someone who is overly particular or fussy about details.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'particular' about every little detail — that's why 'pernickety' means being overly fussy or finicky.

Visually Confused Words