pettier; pettiest
1
: having secondary rank or importance : minor, subordinate
2
: having little or no importance or significance
3
: marked by or reflective of narrow interests and sympathies : small-minded
Synonyms
Examples of petty in a Sentence
a petty argument about grammar
My behavior was petty and stupid. I apologize.
Recent Examples on the Web
What does revoking Biden's security clearance accomplish other than satisfy a petty grievance of a childish man?
—
Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 8 Feb. 2025
The purview of his catalogue narrowed, focusing on refining a reputation as a petty king in rap and in relationships.
—Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2025
The law allows for use of cannabis products only on private property, and creates a petty misdemeanor charge for public consumption.
—Brent Schacherer, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025
Zoom in: Some of Trump's acts of vengeance this week have been petty and personal.
—Zachary Basu, Axios, 23 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for petty 
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Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 8 Feb. 2025
The purview of his catalogue narrowed, focusing on refining a reputation as a petty king in rap and in relationships.
—Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2025
The law allows for use of cannabis products only on private property, and creates a petty misdemeanor charge for public consumption.
—Brent Schacherer, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025
Zoom in: Some of Trump's acts of vengeance this week have been petty and personal.
—Zachary Basu, Axios, 23 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for petty
Dictionary Entries Near petty
Cite this Entry
“Petty.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petty. Accessed 13 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
petty
adjective
pet·ty
ˈpet-ē 
pettier; pettiest
1
: lesser in rank or importance : minor
a petty prince
2
: having little or no importance or meaning
petty details
3
: having or displaying a mean narrow-minded attitude : small-minded
Etymology
Middle English pety "small, minor," an altered form of petit (same meaning), from early French petit "small"
Legal Definition
Biographical Definition
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