Fig. to make numerous small monetary charges that add up to a substantial sum. Those contractors nickel-and-dimed me to death.Just give me the whole bill at one time. Don't nickel-and-dime me for days on end.
nickel-and-dime
(American informal)
very ordinary and not important
Usage notes: Nickels and dimes are American coins which are very low in value.
(always before noun) We drove along past deserted gas stations and nickel-and-dime diners.