Phrase guide

fiddle around

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To toy or play (with something) in an idle, fidgety, aimless or unstructured way; to mess around (with); to muck around (with).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive, transitive

Examples

  • Stop fiddling around with those matches before you set the place on fire.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To tinker (with): to make small adjustments or improvements (to something), especially in an experimental or unskilled manner.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive, transitive

Examples

  • I've been fiddling around all morning, trying to get this old lawnmower to work.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.