Quibble
Definition
(n.) A slight objection or criticism about a trivial matter; (v.) argue or raise objections about a trivial matter.
Etymology
Origin uncertain. Possibly from quib (“quibble”, noun) + -le (diminutive ending). Quib is probably from Latin quibus (“in what respect? how?”), which appeared frequently in legal documents and came to be suggestive of the verbosity and petty argumentation found therein; or perhaps an alteration of quip. Alternatively, perhaps related to dialectal Dutch kwebbelen (“to speak quickly and continuously, chatter”). Compare also Scots wheebele (“a quibble”).
Synonyms
niggle, squabble, brabble, bicker, pettifog
In a sentence
- I have one quibble: the error message could be clearer.
Tags
Source
Vocabulary.md