pettifogging

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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Pettifogging \Pet"ti*fog`ging\, a. Paltry; quibbling; mean. [1913 Webster]
Pettifogging \Pet"ti*fog`ging\, n. Pettifoggery. [1913 Webster]
Pettifog \Pet"ti*fog\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Pettifogged; p. pr. & vb. n. Pettifogging.] [Petty + fog to pettifog.]

1.To do a petty business as a lawyer; also, to do law business in a petty or tricky way. "He takes no money, but pettifogs gratis." --S. Butler. [1913 Webster]

2.To debate or quarrel over unimportant, trifling matters. [PJC]

3.To use subterfuge, deception, or flattery for any purpose; to practice chicanery. [PJC]

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