Punctilio

Punctilio

ˌpəNG(k)ˈtilēō

Noun

  • A fine or petty point of conduct or procedure.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“The level of punctilio in the graduation ceremony was overbearing.”

“Pedro had a knack for remembering the punctilio of military dress codes.”

“Debutante balls are rife with all sorts of punctilio.”

Word Origin

Italian, late 16th century

Why this word?

This word comes from the Spanish “puntillo,” the diminutive of “punto,” meaning “a point,” but it originally stems from the Latin “punctum” (“a point”). In English, “punctilio” means “a petty point of procedure,” but if you’re inundated with them, the plural is “punctilios.” In the “A Series of Unfortunate Events” books and Netflix show, the newspaper “The Daily Punctilio” offers a “simplified and often incorrect” take on the world surrounding its readers, according to narrator Lemony Snicket. The paper’s motto, “All the News in Fits of Print,” is a play on the well-known tagline of “The New York Times.”

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Zeugma

ˈzo͞oɡmə