Meaning & Definition of word "Tinkerer"

Tinkerer

/ˈtɪŋ.kər.ər/

noun:

  • 1. A person who enjoys repairing, adjusting, or experimenting with mechanical devices.
    • Example: He was a lifelong tinkerer, always fixing old radios and building gadgets in his workshop.
  • 2. Someone who engages in small-scale, low-level tinkering, often for pleasure rather than professional reasons.
    • Example: As a tinkerer, she would often take apart household items just to see how they worked.
  • 3. A person who makes or modifies things in a casual or experimental manner.
    • Example: The tinkerer in the garage transformed an old bicycle into a unique electric bike.

Etymology

The word 'tinkerer' comes from the Middle English 'tinkere,' which means one who performs minor repairs, usually in a casual or makeshift manner.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tinker with:

To make small changes to something, usually to improve it.

a tinkerer at heart:

Someone who enjoys hands-on activities and creating or repairing things.

Related Words

tinkering:

The act of making small adjustments or repairs.

DIY:

Do it yourself; making, modifying, or repairing things without the direct aid of professionals.

Slang Meanings of tinkerer

Meaning: A creative person

Example Sentence: He's quite the tinkerer, always coming up with new inventions in his garage.

Meaning: Someone who plays around with technology or gadgets

Example Sentence: As a tinkerer, she loves to hack her devices for better performance.