niggle

[ nig-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, nig·gled, nig·gling.

1. to criticize, especially constantly or repeatedly, in a peevish or petty way; carp:

   to niggle about the fine points of interpretation; preferring to niggle rather than take steps to correct a situation.

2. to spend too much time and effort on inconsequential details:

   It's difficult to be meticulous and not niggle.

3. to work ineffectively; trifle:

   to niggle with an uninteresting task.

niggle

/ ˈnɪɡəl /

verb

1. intr to find fault continually
2. intr to be preoccupied with details; fuss
3. tr to irritate; worry

noun

1. a slight or trivial objection or complaint
2. a slight feeling as of misgiving, uncertainty, etc

Derived Forms

• ˈniggly, adjective
• ˈniggler, noun

Other Words From

• niggler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of niggle¹

1610–20; < Scandinavian; compare Norwegian nigla to be penurious (ultimately < Old Norse hnøggr stingy, cognate with Old English hnēaw ); niggard

Word History and Origins

Origin of niggle¹

C16: from Scandinavian; related to Norwegian nigla. Compare niggard

Example Sentences

McCausland was involved for Rangers against Hearts in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday but was unable to train on Monday because of a niggle.

From BBC

There was niggle too, especially in the shape of Tom Kim.

From BBC

"If somebody has some niggling concerns and it triggers them to ask somebody, 'Are you OK?' then that would be an amazing outcome."

From BBC

"There was something niggling in the back of my mind, I just knew something was off."

From BBC

Guardiola, who previously said Haaland had "muscle niggles", said: "He woke up and feels much better. And hopefully he can play a few minutes."

From BBC