trifling

adjective

tri·​fling ˈtrī-f(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce trifling (audio)
Synonyms of triflingnext
: lacking in significance or solid worth: such as
a
: frivolous
trifling talk
b
: trivial
a trifling gift
c
chiefly dialectal : lazy, shiftless
a trifling fellow

Synonyms

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Examples of trifling in a Sentence

a trifling sum of money deciding what you want to do for a living is no trifling matter
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With that much water needed for even the most trifling tasks, the natural question becomes: How does that water reach those data centers, let alone the world’s farms and factories? — IEEE Spectrum, 28 May 2010 And yet the movie’s insularity feels trifling and empty. — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trifling was in 1535

Rhymes for trifling

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Cite this Entry

“Trifling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trifling. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

trifling

adjective
tri·​fling
ˈtrī-fliŋ
1
: having little meaning or seriousness : frivolous
trifling talk
2
: of little value
a trifling sum

More from Merriam-Webster on trifling

Nglish: Translation of trifling for Spanish Speakers

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