PERSNICKETY Synonyms 9 Synonyms Antonyms for PERSNICKETY Demanding definition is fairly elusive. It refers to someone who is vitally particular and nitpicking. A persnickety individual tends to be meticulous and has high standards when it comes to criteria and flawlessness. Their fastidious nature can be seen as admirable, but it can also lead to unwarranted disapproval and avoidable dissatisfaction. Being persnickety is often associated with detailed focus on specifics but can also be seen as a form of perfectionism.