Persnickety definition and meaning Choosy definition is quite hard to grasp. It refers to someone who is exceedingly picky and nitpicking. A persnickety individual often pay strict attention to detail and has high standards when it comes to standards and flawlessness. Their fastidious nature can be viewed as laudable, but it can also lead to extreme censure and avoidable dissatisfaction. Being persnickety is commonly connected with meticulous focus on specifics but can also be seen as a form of perfectionism.