Meaning & Definition of word "Piddling"

Piddling

/ˈpɪd.lɪŋ/

verb:

  • 1. To waste time or engage in aimless activity.
    • Example: Instead of studying, he spent the afternoon piddling around the house.

adjective:

  • 1. Trivial or insignificant; of little importance.
    • Example: She dismissed his concerns as piddling and not worthy of her time.
  • 2. Petty or small-scale.
    • Example: They wasted hours arguing over piddling details in the contract.

Etymology

Mid 19th century, likely from the verb piddle, which means to waste time.

Common Phrases and Expressions

piddling around:

To waste time doing unimportant things.

piddling tasks:

Small, insignificant tasks that do not require much effort.

piddling amounts:

Very small amounts, often referring to money.

Related Words

piddle:

To waste time or to do something in a trivial way.

piddler:

A person who piddles; someone who wastes time.

Slang Meanings of piddling

Meaning: To engage in monotonous or trivial activity.

Example Sentence: He spent all day piddling instead of making progress.

Meaning: To mess around without any serious intention.

Example Sentence: Quit piddling and let’s get serious about this project.