quibble

1. 1

   An argument or objection based on an ambiguity of wording or similar trivial circumstance; a minor complaint.

   • He harped on his quibble about how the dark red paint should be described as carmine rather than burgundy.
2. 2

   A pun.archaic

   • Is it a quibble, or play upon words?
   • This is a quibble between council and counsel. The latter word is still used to imply secrecy; as in the phrase, "keep your own counsel."

1. 1

   To complain or argue in a trivial or petty manner.informalintransitive

   • They are constantly quibbling over insignificant details.
2. 2

   To contest, especially some trivial issue in a petty manner.informalraretransitive

   • The customer quibbled the bill.

syn. squabble