Meaning & Definition of word "Doodle"

Doodle

/ˈduː.dl/

noun:

  • 1. A simple, spontaneous, or unconscious drawing made while one's attention is otherwise occupied.
    • Example: Her notebook was filled with doodles of flowers and abstract shapes.
  • 2. A meaningless or aimless activity.
    • Example: The meeting was just a doodle; no real progress was made.

verb:

  • 1. To draw or scribble aimlessly, especially while thinking or talking.
    • Example: He likes to doodle during phone calls to keep his hands busy.
  • 2. To waste time or engage in trivial activities.
    • Example: Instead of working on his project, he spent the afternoon doodling.

Etymology

Origin unknown, possibly a playful variation of 'doodlebug', referring to draw aimlessly.

Common Phrases and Expressions

doodle on something:

To draw or sketch while waiting or thinking.

doodlebug:

A small, mindless drawing or doodle.

doodle in the margins:

To draw small pictures or make notes in the margins of a page.

Related Words

scribble:

To write or draw carelessly and quickly.

sketch:

A rough or unfinished drawing.

design:

A plan or drawing produced to show the look and function of something.

Slang Meanings of doodle

Meaning: To doodle can mean to waste time or procrastinate.

Example Sentence: Stop doodling and get to work on that project!

Meaning: In some contexts, 'doodle' can refer to a casual, simple drawing done for fun.

Example Sentence: He sends me his doodles over text when he's bored.