# pick one's nose

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/pick-ones-nose
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To insert a finger or other object into one's nostril to remove obstructions, especially dried mucus.

## Examples

- It is rude to pick your nose in public.
- The teacher told the young student to stop picking his nose during the lesson.
- Despite his attempts to appear dignified during the formal dinner, he was caught picking his nose when he thought no one was looking.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.