pettifogger

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For nearly three years now, I’ve been fascinated by the performance art of this blustering pettifogger.

From Los Angeles Times

“The noun pettifogger has two main senses: ‘A lawyer whose methods are petty, underhanded, or disreputable; shyster’ and ‘one given to quibbling over trifles.’

From Washington Times

The verb was actually formed from the noun "pettifogger", which was used in the 16th Century to describe those who would argue over minor details in a fee.

From BBC

He hated Mr. Bonamy for a puritanical old pettifogger; but that was no reason why he should be rude to his daughter.

From Project Gutenberg

"That a son of mine should lack the spirit to turn on these pettifoggers!"

From Project Gutenberg