159 Synonyms Antonyms of PERSNICKETY MerriamWebsterPersnickety sense is rather elusive. It refers to someone who is exceptionally choosy and judgmental. A persnickety individual tends to nitpick and sets the bar high when it comes to criteria and perfection. Their meticulousness can be perceived as commendable, but it can also exacerbate excessive censure and unjustified dissatisfaction. Being persnickety is typically associated with thorough focus on specifics but can also be seen as a form of perfectionism.