Pick'le1, n.
(pĭk'l), n. [D. pekel, L. Ger. pökel, H. Ger. pökel, Up. Ger. piechel; according to some etymologists, so called after William Pōkel, who is said to have invented the art of pickling herrings, in the fourteenth century.]
Sense 1. A solution of salt and water, in which fish and meat may be preserved or corned.
Sense 2. Vinegar, sometimes seasoned with spices, in which vegetables, fish, oysters, &c., may be preserved.
Sense 3. Any article of food which has been preserved in vinegar.
Sense 4. A troublesome child; as, a little pickle.
To be in a pickle, to be in a disagreeable position; to be in a condition of embarrassment, difficulty, or disorder. “Thou shalt be whipped with rue, and stewed in brine, smarting in lingering pickle.” Shak.—To put a rod in pickle, to get ready a punishment which will cause smarting.