per·nick·e·ty \]ē, ]i\adjective Etymology: perhaps alteration of particular 1.: having extremely exacting standards : finical, fussy, meticulous < dons who can be … obstinate and pernickety — R.F.Harrod > 2.: requiring great precision : ticklish < his pernickety, very nasty job — Paul de Kruif > Synonyms:see nice