hairsplit verb 2noun 1forms 2 verb2 •To make fine distinctions concerning.The real criticism of your article is not only your attitude of mind as expressed therein, but also in dealing with details and inclination to hairsplit minor matters — 1922 •To split hairs.We are not disposed to refine and hairsplit so as to nullify these wise provisions of the statute — 1915 noun1 •A fine distinction.It's an arguable distinction, but I think it's a hairsplit. formshairsplitting · hairsplits
