Persnickety

Definition

Fussy, particular, or overly concerned with minor details; demanding precise accuracy or exactness. Often describes someone who is difficult to please or has extremely high standards.

Example Usage

The head chef was persnickety about ingredient quality, refusing to use anything but organic, farm-sourced vegetables.

Origin

Likely derived from Scottish 'pernickety,' possibly from German 'peinlich' meaning careful or particular, though the exact etymology is debated.

Fun Fact

This word exploded in popularity after it appeared in 'Mary Poppins,' where it perfectly captures the character's fussy nature.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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