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Niggler: meaning, definitions and examples

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niggler

 

[ ˈnɪg.lər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

informal usage

A 'niggler' typically refers to a person who is overly concerned with trivial details or minor issues. This term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the individual is nitpicky or excessively critical about small matters, thereby annoying others. While the word may sometimes be used in a light-hearted manner to describe someone who is meticulous, it can also denote a frustratingly pedantic attitude.

Synonyms

fussbudget, nitpicker, pedant, stickler

Examples of usage

  • Stop being such a niggler about the font size.
  • He’s a niggler when it comes to dinner arrangements.
  • I don’t want to sound like a niggler, but that color doesn’t match.

Translations

Translations of the word "niggler" in other languages:

🇵🇹 picareta

🇮🇳 चिढ़ाने वाला

🇩🇪 Nörgler

🇮🇩 pengganggu

🇺🇦 досадник

🇵🇱 narzekacz

🇯🇵 文句を言う人

🇫🇷 râleur

🇪🇸 quejica

🇹🇷 sızlanıcı

🇰🇷 불평하는 사람

🇸🇦 مُتذمِّر

🇨🇿 stěžovatel

🇸🇰 sťažovateľ

🇨🇳 抱怨者

🇸🇮 jamra

🇮🇸 kvörtur

🇰🇿 наразаушы

🇬🇪 ბრაზიანი

🇦🇿 şikayətçi

🇲🇽 quejumbroso

Etymology

The term 'niggler' likely derives from the word 'niggle,' which has its roots in the late 18th century. 'Niggle' originally referred to making slight or unnecessary fuss about something trivial and has possible origins in elements of the dialectal word 'nig,' which meant to 'grumble' or 'complain.' Over time, the suffix '-er' was added to form the noun 'niggler,' indicating a person who engages in niggling behavior. While 'niggler' has not seen widespread usage in formal contexts, it has found its place in informal conversations, particularly aimed at describing a person’s personality quirks pertaining to perfectionism or attention to detail. Though often used humorously, it can carry a dismissive undertone when referring to someone who can’t let go of minutiae, highlighting the cultural disdain for excessive fussiness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,640, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.