Meaning & Definition of word "Tinker"

Tinker

/ˈtɪŋ.kər/

noun:

  • 1. a person who enjoys fixing or working on machines, especially in an experimental or makeshift manner.
    • Example: As a tinker, he often found innovative solutions to problems around the house.
  • 2. historically, a traveling mender of metal utensils.
    • Example: The tinker came to the village to repair pots and pans.

verb:

  • 1. to attempt to repair or improve something in a casual or desultory way.
    • Example: He likes to tinker with old cars in his garage.
  • 2. to work on or improve something in a makeshift way.
    • Example: She spent the afternoon tinkering with her computer to fix the software issues.

Etymology

Middle English 'tinkerer', probably from 'tink', to make a ringing sound.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tinker with something:

To make small changes to something.

tinker bell:

A reference to the famous fairy character, often used to describe a small, delicate, or magical person or thing.

Related Words

fix:

To repair something that is broken or damaged.

fiddle:

To make small adjustments or manipulations.

Slang Meanings of tinker

Meaning: To mess around with something.

Example Sentence: Stop tinkering with the settings; you're making it worse.

Meaning: To play around or be inattentive.

Example Sentence: He was just tinkering instead of getting his work done.