What does CAVIL mean?

Definition of Cavil

1. Parts of Speech: verb, noun

2. Definitions:

• (v.) To raise trivial and frivolous objections or criticisms; to nitpick or quibble.
• (n.) A trivial or frivolous objection or criticism; a nitpick or quibble.

3. Pronunciations:

• US: /ˈkævəl/
• UK: /ˈkævəl/

4. Origin and Usage:

The word "cavil" comes from the Latin word "cavillari," which means "to jeer." It was first used in English in the 16th century. The verb form is more commonly used than the noun form. The word is often used in a negative context, to describe someone who is overly critical or nitpicky.

5. Synonyms:

• (v.) Nitpick, quibble, carp, fuss, criticize, object, complain.
• (n.) Nitpicking, quibbling, carping, fussing, criticism, objection, complaint.

6. Related Words: vocal, civil, rival, naval, vital.

7. Example Sentences:

• She always finds something to cavil about, no matter how well things are going.
• His cavils about the proposal were so minor that they didn really affect the overall decision.