nibbling

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)The act or sound of one who nibbles.

   “Minute nibblings and rustlings broke the silence.”

2. (countable, uncountable)A small adjustment or encroachment.

   “I send you back the two last sheets, because you bid me. I reserve my nibblings and minutiae for another day.”

   “Meantime the penetration of Shantung by means of railway discrimination, railway military guards, continual nibblings here and there, will be going on.”

verb

1. (form-of, gerund, participle, present)present participle and gerund of nibble