Petty
'pɛti
Definitions
2 meaningsConcerned with unimportant matters; small; insignificant; of little consequence.
'pɛti
Of little importance; trivial
She was annoyed by his petty complaints.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend is arguing with someone about the smallest things, like who ate the last cookie. That's petty! It's when someone is focused on stuff that doesn't really matter.
👶 For kids: Like, if you're mad because someone took your crayon, but it's not a BIG deal, that's petty.
More Examples
The argument was over something incredibly petty.
They shouldn't waste their time on such petty issues.
How It's Used
"Don't get bogged down in petty details."
"He was charged with a petty theft."
Characterized by or showing an excessive concern with minor matters, often in a small-minded or mean way.
'pɛti
Showing an excessive concern with minor matters, especially in a small-minded or mean way
She refused to speak to him after their petty argument.
💡 Simply: When someone is being mean or holding a grudge about something really small, like a little disagreement or mistake. It's like, 'Let it go!'
👶 For kids: Being mean over something small, like if you won't share a toy because it's the last one.
More Examples
His petty jealousy was a major problem in their relationship.
It's really petty to gossip about other people.
How It's Used
"He was being petty about his ex-girlfriend."
"She held a petty grudge for years."
Idioms & expressions
petty cash
A small amount of money kept by a business for minor expenses.
"The secretary uses petty cash for office supplies."
From Middle French *petit* meaning 'small', derived from the Old French *petit* and ultimately from Latin *parvus* meaning 'small, little'.
Historically, 'petty' was used with the same sense of smallness, applying to both physical size and significance. It appeared in legal contexts and everyday conversations.
Memory tip
Think of 'petty cash' - it's for small, everyday expenses.