fine print

noun

: something thoroughly and often deliberately obscure
especially : a part of an agreement or document spelling out restrictions and limitations often in small type or obscure language

Examples of fine print in a Sentence

Read the fine print before you sign the contract.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Parity clauses, the fine print stopping a hotel from selling cheaper anywhere else, held it all in place. — Abhinav Sinha, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 Reselling can be a tricky process with fine print, and people sometimes fall into scams. — Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 29 July 2026 Some airlines reserve off-peak pricing for economy awards, so review the fine print before booking. — Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 27 July 2026 There are two unbelievable bargains hidden in the fine print of the Connecticut Pizza & Brew Fest to take place August 2 at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport. — Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for fine print

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fine print was in 1891

Rhymes for fine print

See All Rhymes for fine print

Browse Nearby Words

fine one to talk
fine print
finery
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fine print.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fine%20print. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Legal Definition

fine print

noun
: a part of an agreement or document spelling out restrictions or limitations often in small type or obscure language
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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