GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Pettifog , v. i. [imp. & p. p. Pettifogged ; p. pr. & vb. n. Pettifogging .] [Petty + fog to pettifog.]
    To do a petty business as a lawyer; also, to do law business in a petty or tricky way. “He takes no money, but pettifogs gratis.” 
   S. Butler.
   
   1913 Webster
   To debate or quarrel over unimportant, trifling matters.
   PJC
   To use subterfuge, deception, or flattery for any purpose; to practice chicanery.
   PJC
         
       

2.       
   Pettifog, v. t. To advocate like a pettifogger; to argue trickily; as, to pettifog a claim. [Colloq.]
   1913 Webster