The word "fiddling" can be a tricky one to spell, especially when it comes to the double 'd' in the middle. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈfɪdlɪŋ/. The first syllable "/ˈfɪd/" is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the second syllable "/lɪŋ/" is pronounced with a short "i" sound as well. The "d" in "fiddling" is doubled to show that the preceding vowel should be short. So when in doubt, remember to double the "d" when spelling "fiddling."
Fiddling is a verb that can have different meanings depending on the context. It generally refers to the act of making small, often unnecessary, adjustments or manipulations to something. It implies that the actions being taken are trivial, insignificant, or done in a way that lacks seriousness or purpose.
In a literal sense, fiddling can describe the act of playing the fiddle, a stringed musical instrument. However, this usage is less common and outdated.
In a figurative sense, fiddling can refer to a person engaging in irrelevant or wasteful activities, such as poking or toying with objects without any productive outcome. It can also indicate the act of attempting to fix or adjust something in a clumsy or inefficient manner.
Fiddling can also denote the idea of misusing time or resources. It suggests that someone is engaging in frivolous actions, often to avoid doing more important or meaningful tasks. This usage carries a negative connotation, emphasizing that the person is unproductive or wasting valuable resources.
Furthermore, fiddling can be used to describe fraudulent or illicit activities, especially when referring to financial matters. For instance, someone may be accused of fiddling with accounts or manipulating finances for personal gain.
Overall, fiddling implies a sense of triviality, unproductiveness, or even dishonesty, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
• Trifling.
• The playing on a fiddle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "fiddling" comes from the Middle English term "fiedlen", which was derived from the Old English word "fidulan". This Old English term meant "to touch or handle something in a fussy or nervous manner". Over time, "fiedlen" evolved into "fiddlen" in Middle English, and eventually became the word "fiddling" in Modern English. Originally, "fiddling" referred to playing the fiddle or violin, but it gradually gained an extended meaning of engaging in trivial or unimportant activities, often implying wasting time or being busy in a pointless manner.