Niggle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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niggle
[ˈnɪɡl ]
Definitions
minor annoyance
To niggle means to cause slight but persistent discomfort or worry. It often refers to something that bothers or annoys you in a small way, rather than a major issue. This term can also imply a sense of worry that provokes an anxious feeling, particularly about details that may seem insignificant. Niggle can also refer to the act of making petty or trivial complaints.
Synonyms
bother, irritate, nag, pester.
Examples of usage
- I can't focus because something keeps niggling at me.
- She niggles about the way I do my chores.
- His conscience niggled him after he told a small lie.
persistent worry
A niggle can refer to a minor annoyance or a slight feeling of discomfort. It is often used to describe a small worry or complaint that lingers in someone's mind. This term encapsulates those little thoughts that can distract you, even if they are not serious. In this context, a niggle could refer to a minor issue or concern that you can't quite shake off.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I have a niggle about whether I locked the door.
- Her niggle regarding the project deadline kept her awake.
- There's a niggle in my mind about that decision.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Minor anxieties can often lead to larger stress if left unaddressed, similar to how a niggle grows over time.
- Cognitive biases can cause individuals to focus disproportionately on minor issues, leading to unnecessary worry.
- Researchers find that small, persistent worries can impact overall mental health by creating a cycle of negative thinking.
Literature
- The term appears in many classic novels where characters display an obsessive focus on minor troubles.
- Writers often use 'niggle' as a metaphor for the nagging thoughts that plague the mind.
- In J.R.R. Tolkien's short story 'Leaf by Niggle,' the protagonist's small concerns represent larger existential themes.
Pop Culture
- The term has been embraced in various meme cultures to humorously express overthinking insignificant matters.
- Modern social media often amplifies niggling feelings about life's small stresses, leading to relatable content shared among users.
- In comedic representations, such as sitcoms, characters' niggles often serve as sources of humor or plot drivers.
Origin of 'niggle'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'niggle' comes from the 18th century, likely derived from the dialect word 'nig' which means to be stingy.
- It originally referred to petty complaints or minor concerns.
- A connection to 'niggling' implies something that is irritating or troublesome in a small way.
The word 'niggle' traces its origins back to the late 18th century and is believed to be of Scottish origin, possibly linked to the word 'nig', which means to be niggardly or stingy. The usage of 'niggle' has evolved over time, initially capturing the sense of being overly particular or petty. It was often used in a context to describe someone who was overly concerned with trivial matters. By the 19th century, the term began to reflect not just pettiness, but also a persistent feeling of worry or discomfort. Its continued evolution has cemented 'niggle' as a term reflecting nagging feelings or minor irritations, often used in both spoken and written English. Today, it embodies more than just a trivial annoyance; it has come to signify a broader range of subtle internal conflicts or disturbances.