Definition of picker

The word "picker" has its roots in the 14th century when it was used to describe someone who picks or selects something, such as fruit or flowers. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings. In the late 15th century, a "picker" referred to someone who picks or chooses with care, often used in the context of selecting food or other consumable goods. In the 19th century, the term took on a more negative connotation, describing someone who was considered a "picky eater" or someone who was overly selective or fussy. In popular culture, the term "picker" gained new meaning in the 1960s and 1970s through the rise of folk and blues music, particularly in the Delta blues tradition. A "picker" referred to a skilled guitarist who could pick or strum the strings of their guitar with great precision and artistry.