FIDDLES WITH Meaning and
Definition
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"Fiddle with" is a phrasal verb that means to manipulate, adjust, or tamper with something, especially in a careless or absentminded manner. It implies making small, often unnecessary or excessive movements or modifications to an object or a mechanism. The actions performed while fiddling with something may involve tinkering, twiddling, or fidgeting with it, without any distinct purpose or objective.
"Fiddle with" suggests a state of restlessness or uncertainty, where the individual is fidgeting or fussing with an object as a means to occupy or divert their attention. It can be an expression of nervousness, restlessness, or a habit formed out of boredom or idleness. The act of fiddling with something often involves repeatedly touching, turning, or adjusting it, without producing any meaningful outcome or resolving an issue.
While "fiddling with" often implies a lack of focus, intent, or absorption in an actual task, it can also describe someone deliberately experimenting or exploring a new object or mechanism to understand its functionality. However, this deliberate exploration might still involve repetitive movements or adjustments, with no clear purpose other than searching for clues or discovering how the object functions.
Overall, "fiddle with" describes the act of playing or tampering with something in a somewhat aimless or absentminded manner, encompassing both tentative exploration and restless fidgeting.
Common Misspellings for FIDDLES WITH
- fuddle with
- diddles with
- ciddles with
- viddles with
- giddles with
- tiddles with
- riddles with
- fuddles with
- fjddles with
- fkddles with
- foddles with
- f9ddles with
- f8ddles with
- fisdles with
- fixdles with
- ficdles with
- fifdles with
- firdles with
- fiedles with
- fidsles with
Etymology of FIDDLES WITH
The phrase "fiddles with" consists of two components: "fiddles" and "with".
The word "fiddles" is derived from the verb "fiddle", which has its origins in the Old English word "fidula" meaning a "stringed musical instrument" related to the modern violin. Over time, the verb "fiddle" came to mean playing a fiddle or any similar action involving the use of one's fingers to manipulate or meddle with something in a playful or frivolous manner.
The word "with" is a preposition that has its roots in Old English as well, and it signifies association, connection, or involvement with something or someone.
Therefore, "fiddles with" means the act of manipulating or playing around with something, involving the use of one's fingers or hands in a playful or lighthearted manner.
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