bikeshed

English

noun
Definitions
  • (literally) An enclosed structure where bicycles may be stored.
  • (figuratively) A topic that is attracting debate ad nauseam, out of all proportion to its actual importance. Also bikeshedding, the process of arguing endlessly over details of some small and relatively unimportant thing. Originates as a metaphor to explain 's Law of Parkinson’s Law of Triviality.

Etymology

Compound from English bike (bicycle, l, motorcycle, short for motorbike) + English shed.

Origin

English

shed

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms