ETYMOLOGY
either from niffle (to act in a trifling manner) + ‑ing,
or from nifle (a trifle) + ‑ing
EXAMPLE
“…There are some that are so forestalled with a strong self-conceit of their own light and love of self-will, that whatsoever bears not the stamp and superscription of their approved patrons, schools and institutions, is but as darkness and nifling shadows unto them, and ungrounded prejudice, cavilling superstition, and vain suspicion do so much possess them, that they reject it as not worth the reading over; …”
From: The Epistles of Jacob Boehme
Translated by J. Ellistone, 1649
Preface to the reader
Lexicophilia 