hairsplitting

Other forms: hairsplittings

Definitions of hairsplitting
  1. noun
    making too fine distinctions of little importance
    “they didn't take his hairsplitting seriously”
    synonyms: word-splitting
    see moresee less
    type of:
    differentiation, distinction
    a discrimination between things as different and distinct
  2. adjective
    developed in excessively fine detail
    synonyms: finespun
    precise
    sharply exact or accurate or delimited
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘hairsplitting'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family