Picky

Characterized by being excessively particular and fastidious in one's tastes, preferences, or demands. A picky person is often difficult to please and shows a strong inclination to find fault or express dissatisfaction with things that others find acceptable. This behavior can extend to food, clothing, entertainment, or any aspect of life where choices are available. It often reflects a high standard or a specific aesthetic preference, and can be perceived as a minor inconvenience or a more serious personality trait. It is derived from the word 'pick' used for selecting, highlighting the selective nature inherent in being picky.

Picky meaning with examples

• The restaurant was bustling, but little Timmy remained picky about his food, refusing to eat anything that touched his mashed potatoes. He scrutinized the menu, declared the pizza 'too cheesy', and ultimately demanded a plain hot dog, leading his parents to despair at meal times. His picky eating habits were a common source of frustration.
• Sarah was incredibly picky about clothes. Every outfit had to be just right, the fabric perfect, the colors complementary. She spent hours in department stores, returning countless items, and could always find a flaw. This often made shopping for her a challenge, as her exacting standards and picky nature left her wardrobe requirements nearly impossible to satisfy.
• As a film critic, Mark was famously picky. He dissected every scene, critiquing acting performances, lighting, and sound design. This discerning eye led to insightful reviews but often left filmmakers wary, knowing their work would face extreme scrutiny. His picky perspective made him a respected but demanding voice in cinematic circles.
• Choosing a roommate for college, Emily was very picky. She had a very long list of requirements. They had to be neat, quiet, and share her exact bedtime. After a month she was still searching for a match. Her picky selection process, while trying to get the best outcome, meant a late start to settling in
• The art collector, Mrs. Abernathy, was notoriously picky, and was well known for her high standards. She would spend hours examining a painting, looking for even the slightest imperfection. Only a piece that met her exact criteria would get a place in her collection. This picky nature was the defining characteristic of her gallery.