When people argue about the definition or meaning of a word. This usually starts in the middle of an argument and distracts from the main topic of the argument. Whether done intentionally or not depends on the people arguing.

When an argument deteriorates and its focus becomes one about word definitions rather than the main topic, a person will usually say "Oh, now we're just arguing semantics". Usually by this point, the arguement has become a waste of time because it has morphed into a bunch of bickering about irrelevant, unimportant details rather than the original main point.

If someone accuses you of arguing semantics, they're usually accusing you of intentionally avoiding the topic. In this case, the person may or may not be misusing the phrase in order to do so. If you're not actually arguing about word definitions, then they should accuse you of being nit-picky instead (as that would be more accurate) but to explain it to this degree becomes a bit nit-picky in and of itself and so for obvious reasons, this is the end.

Jenny: Hey Tommy, did you do your homework?
Tommy: I would never do my homework.
Jenny: What do you mean? You always do your homework!
Tommy: No, I would never "do" my homework - that would be gross. But if you want to know if I completed my homework...
Jenny: Oh, please. Spare me. Now you're just arguing semantics.

arguing semantics by PineappleJane February 9, 2017

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Sementia

A mental condition whose symptoms include obsession with semen, semen hoarding and confusion.

Shelly had such severe sementia, she had to rent out a storage unit just to store the jars of semen she stole from unsuspecting men.

Sementia by CockMaster 5000 September 13, 2014

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semantics

The main purpose for internet forums.
The study of discussing the meaning/interpretation of words or groups of words within a certain context; usually in order to win some form of argument.

Now come on, let's not get bogged down in semantics.

semantics by molecule802.11 April 5, 2009

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Anti-Semantic

adj.
Being against the arguing of meanings or definitions of words.

"Look, I just don't care if the Holocaust refers specifically to the murder of the Ashkenazi Jews or if it can be used more broadly to the Nazi's persecution of other minorities!"

"Wow, stop being so anti-semantic! This is important."

Anti-Semantic by therichardstill September 4, 2009

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Semenoid

Semenoids are itty bitty semen, the semen that expels from your phalace.

I was beating off last night and a whole bunch of semenoids escaped.

Semenoid by Wolfthechubba January 4, 2011

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briefcake

A handsome male lawyer.

"Did you check out the briefcake in courtroom C?"

briefcake by Ben Frey April 6, 2006

Word of the Day on November 3, 2026

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Ratfucker

Brought to public attention by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein in the book on the fall of Richard Nixon, All The President’s Men, ratfucker was Nixon’s term for a political operative who sows chaos among opponents; an agent provocateur. It is thought to have originated among campus political rivalries at USC, and seems to have some usage in the US military.

Along with Nixon’s other ratfuckers, Roger Stone caused fights at otherwise peaceful Democratic Party protests to generate a false narrative that the Democrats were violent and dangerous.

Ratfucker by Ricky Ramjet November 2, 2017

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countrypolitan

Term used to describe someone who is a mix of both rural (country) and urban (metropolitan) lifestyles/upbringings. He/she is typically equally comfortable in both settings and is able to seamlessly slip back and forth between the two, appreciating the characteristics of each.

That ol' gal of mine drives the 12 lane freeway during the week and a John Deere on the weekends. She likes opra and the Grand Ol' Opry. I love them countrypolitan women.

countrypolitan by MOChick November 7, 2006

Word of the Day on November 1, 2026

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Witch Bath

A bath consisting of a variety of slats, oils, soaps or any other added ingredients such as fruits, milks, herbs or any other spices for health or beautifying benifits.

She brought home alot of stuff and took it to the bathroom. She must be taking a witch bath.

Witch Bath by carnieboy30 October 26, 2020

Word of the Day on October 31, 2026