Definition

The quality of being concerned with small, unimportant things rather than more significant issues.

Example

Her pettiness was evident when she refused to forgive her friend over a minor disagreement.

Conversation

I can't believe how much pettiness there is among our classmates.

I know! It's like they can't let go of the smallest things.

Right? It's exhausting to deal with all that drama.

Totally! I wish everyone would just grow up a little.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pettiness → It is formed from "petit" (from Old French, meaning small or little) and "-ness" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating a state or quality). The word "pettiness" refers to the quality of being small-minded or trivial.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'petit' meaning small — this helps you remember that 'pettiness' refers to a state of being small-minded or concerned with trivial matters.

Visually Confused Words