picky
Picky (adj) means Hard to please; fussy about details and demanding that things be exactly right. Example: “She's picky about coffee and won't drink anything from a machine.”
How to use picky
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing overly selective or hard to satisfy, especially about small details.
Usually mildly negative — it suggests someone is fussier than necessary, not just careful.
Word forms
pickier comparative, pickies plural, pickiest superlative
Fill the gap
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She's _____ about coffee and won't drink anything from a machine.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for picky
See all rhymes for picky →Frequently asked questions
What does “picky” mean?
The word “picky” means hard to please; fussy about details and demanding that things be exactly right. In plain terms, being overly selective or hard to satisfy, especially about small details.
How do you pronounce “picky”?
“Picky” is pronounced PIH-kee (/ˈpɪki/ in IPA).
How do you use “picky” in a sentence?
Here is “picky” used in a sentence: “She's picky about coffee and won't drink anything from a machine.”
What is another word for “picky”?
Words with a similar meaning to “picky” include anal-retentive, choosy, finicky, fussy, particular and pedantic.
What part of speech is “picky”?
“Picky” is an adjective.
Is “picky” a common word?
“Picky” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.