Persnicketiness definition of persnicketiness by The Free Fussy sense is quite hard to grasp. It refers to someone who is exceptionally selective and disapproving. A persnickety individual typically be meticulous and has high standards when it comes to standards and excellence. Their meticulousness can be perceived as commendable, but it can also lead to excessive disapproval and avoidable dissatisfaction. Being persnickety is typically related to thorough focus on specifics but can also be seen as a form of obsessiveness.