Picayune - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Picayune describes something trivial or insignificant, often used to criticize matters as unimportant or petty. It can also refer to a small amount or value, emphasizing minimal worth.
Definition:
Of little value or importance; trivial or petty.
Synonyms:
trivial, petty, insignificant, negligible, paltry
Part of Speech:
adjective, noun
Antonyms:
important, significant
Common Collocations:
picayune details, picayune matters, picayune complaints
Derivatives:
picayunish, picayunishly
Usage Tips:
Use "picayune" to describe something overly focused on minor details or of little consequence.
Common Phrases:
split hairs over picayune matters, argue about picayune things, dismiss as picayune
Etymology:
From French "picaillon," a small coin; later used to mean something insignificant in Louisiana Creole dialect.
Examples:
- 1. The argument was over a picayune issue no one cared about.
- 2. She dismissed his picayune complaints with a wave of her hand.
- 3. Don’t waste time on such picayune details—focus on the big picture.
- 4. His picayune attitude made teamwork difficult for everyone involved.