PICK AT Meaning and
Definition
-
The phrase "pick at" is a multi-functional idiom that can be used in different contexts with varying meanings. One common interpretation of "pick at" refers to the act of repetitively and casually poking, scratching, or removing small pieces from an object or surface. For instance, someone might "pick at" a scab on their skin or "pick at" their food, playing with it rather than eating it in a focused manner. In this sense, the action is often seen as fidgety, aimless, or sometimes even irritating to others.
Another possible interpretation of "pick at" is to engage in a critical, negative, or nagging behavior directed at a person or their ideas. When one "picks at" a person, they persistently find fault or raise objections to minor details, often causing annoyance or frustration. Similarly, "picking at" ideas involves scrutinizing and criticizing them, often in a petty or trivial manner. This usage suggests a tendency to focus on perceived flaws rather than appreciating the overall concept.
Furthermore, "pick at" can describe the act of eating small amounts of food without consuming a full meal. This can be due to a lack of appetite, eating disorder, or simply a preference for snacking or grazing rather than indulging in a full plate. In this context, individuals may "pick at" their food during social gatherings or while working, displaying a tendency towards light and scattered eating habits.
Common Misspellings for PICK AT
- oick at
- lick at
- -ick at
- 0ick at
- pjck at
- pkck at
- pock at
- p9ck at
- p8ck at
- pixk at
- pivk at
- pifk at
- pidk at
- picj at
- picm at
- picl at
- pico at
- pici at
- pick zt
Etymology of PICK AT
The word "pick at" is a phrasal verb that consists of the verb "pick" and the preposition "at".
The verb "pick" has its origin in the Old English word "pician", which means to prick or pierce. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "pikōną" and the Proto-Indo-European root "beik̑-", meaning to point or stab.
The preposition "at" is derived from the Old English word "æt", which expresses proximity or direction towards something. It shares its root with the Old Norse word "at", the Gothic word "at", and the German word "an".
When combined, "pick at" refers to a specific action of poking, pricking, or poking around delicately or lightly at something.
Idioms with the word PICK AT
-
pick at sth
The idiom "pick at something" typically means to repeatedly make small, critical remarks or criticisms about something. It can also refer to the act of poking or prodding something, often in a hesitant or undecided manner.
-
pick at sm or sth
The idiom "pick at sm or sth" means to continuously criticize, find fault with, or annoy someone or something in a persistent or nagging manner. It often refers to the act of nitpicking or focusing on small details or flaws, sometimes without a valid reason or purpose.
-
pick at
to repeatedly pull or remove small pieces of something by hand
Similar spelling words for PICK AT
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
