Look up quibble in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.
In terms of fiction, a quibble is a plot device, used to fulfill the exact verbal conditions of an agreement in order to avoid the intended meaning. Typically quibbles are used in legal bargains and, in fantasy, magically enforced ones (for example prophecies).[1]
- ^ John Grant and John Clute, The Encyclopedia of Fantasy, "Quibbles" p 796 ISBN 0-312-19869-8