Meaning & Definition of word "Tinker"
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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.