persnickety adj meanings etymology and more Demanding importance is somewhat difficult to understand. It refers to someone who is exceedingly picky and critical. A persnickety individual tends to be meticulous and has high standards when it comes to quality and excellence. Their attention to detail can be regarded as praiseworthy, but it can also exacerbate overly demanding criticism and avoidable dissatisfaction. Being persnickety is commonly connected with detailed focus on specifics but can also be seen as a form of pedantry.