FIDDLE Meaning and
Definition
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Fiddle is a noun and a verb commonly used in the English language. As a noun, it refers to a stringed musical instrument, often played with a bow. The fiddle is similar to a violin but is more commonly associated with traditional or folk music. It typically has four strings and a hollow wooden body that resonates when the strings are played. The sound produced by a fiddle is known for its distinct and vibrant tones.
As a verb, to fiddle means to play the fiddle or to manipulate the strings to produce music. Describing someone as fiddling suggests that they are skillfully playing this instrument. Additionally, the verb can also be used figuratively to imply the act of making small adjustments, often in a repetitive or restless manner, such as fiddling with a pen or fiddling with the buttons on a remote control.
In a more colloquial context, to fiddle can mean to tamper, meddle, or manipulate something in a dishonest or unauthorized manner. This usage often implies an intent to deceive, cheat, or steal, as in the phrase "to fiddle with the accounts" or "to fiddle with the evidence." It can also refer to wasting time or engaging in unproductive activities, as in "stop fiddling around and get to work."
Overall, the term fiddle encompasses a range of meanings depending on the context, including a musical instrument, playing music, making small adjustments, or engaging in deceitful behavior.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for FIDDLE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for FIDDLE
Etymology of FIDDLE
The word "fiddle" originated in the late Old English or early Middle English period as "fithele" or "fithel", derived from the Old Germanic word "fidula" or "fitula". This, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin word "vitula", which referred to various types of stringed instruments. The word "fiddle" was initially used to describe a specific type of musical instrument played with a bow, but over time, it became more commonly associated with the violin.
Idioms with the word FIDDLE
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play second fiddle
The idiom "play second fiddle" means to have a subordinate or less important role in a particular situation or relationship. It originates from the orchestra, where the second violinist (playing the second fiddle) has a supporting role behind the first violinist (playing the first fiddle or lead).
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be (as) fit as a fiddle
The idiom "be (as) fit as a fiddle" means to be in excellent health or physical condition. It implies that someone is very fit, strong, and well-functioning, similar to how a well-tuned fiddle produces beautiful music.
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be (as) fit as a flea, at be (as) fit as a fiddle
The idiom "be (as) fit as a flea" or "be (as) fit as a fiddle" means to be in excellent health or physical condition. It implies that someone is energetic, strong, and robust, similar to a flea or a fiddle that is in perfect working order.
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fiddle around
The idiom "fiddle around" refers to engaging in trivial or unproductive actions, often done without purpose or focus. It implies wasting time or being occupied with insignificant tasks instead of doing something productive or important.
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play second fiddle (to sb/sth)
The idiom "play second fiddle (to sb/sth)" means to have a subordinate or less important role, often in comparison to someone or something else. It implies being in a position of lesser influence or importance, while someone or something else takes the leading or dominant role.
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play second fiddle (to sm)
The idiom "play second fiddle (to sm)" means to take on a subordinate or lesser role to someone else, to be in a position of less importance or dominance. It refers to the metaphorical idea of being the second violinist in an orchestra, who has a supporting role to the first violinist.
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fiddle away
The idiom "fiddle away" means to waste or squander something, typically time or an opportunity, by engaging in unproductive or trivial activities. It implies the act of being distracted or preoccupied with insignificant matters instead of focusing on something important or worthwhile.
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There's many a good tune played on an old fiddle
The idiom "There's many a good tune played on an old fiddle" means that even though something or someone may be old or outdated, they can still be useful or productive. It suggests that age or appearance does not necessarily reflect one's abilities or potential.
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fiddle with sth
The idiom "fiddle with something" can be defined as manipulating or tinkering with something, often in a restless or absent-minded manner, without a clear purpose or objective. It implies an action of handling or adjusting something without actively engaging or focusing on it.
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fiddle away sth
The idiom "fiddle away something" means to waste or squander something, often time, money, or an opportunity, by engaging in unproductive or trivial activities. It implies a sense of negligence or irresponsibility in handling or utilizing something that could have been utilized more effectively.
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be on the fiddle
The idiom "be on the fiddle" typically means to be engaged in dishonest or fraudulent activities, usually for personal gain. It can refer to someone indulging in deceitful behavior or engaging in some form of illegal or unethical actions, especially in a sneaky or manipulative manner.
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fiddle with sm or sth
The idiom "fiddle with sm or sth" refers to continuously playing or adjusting something with one's hands, often in a nervous or absent-minded manner. It can also mean to tamper or tinker with something, usually in an attempt to fix or improve it.
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fiddle around (with sth)
The idiom "fiddle around (with sth)" means to tinker, experiment, or play with something casually or without purpose. It implies engaging in an activity with little seriousness or focus, often with the intention of passing time or exploring something out of curiosity.
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fiddle sth away
The idiom "fiddle something away" means to waste or squander something, especially time, money, or opportunities, by using it in a careless or unproductive manner. It implies that someone is engaging in trivial or unnecessary activities instead of focusing on more important tasks or goals.
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fit as a fiddle
The idiom "fit as a fiddle" means to be in very good health or physical condition.
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(as) fit as a fiddle
The idiom "(as) fit as a fiddle" means to be in excellent physical health or condition. It implies that someone is exceptionally fit, energetic, and strong, much like a finely tuned musical instrument that is ready to perform.
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play second fiddle (to somebody/something)
The idiom "play second fiddle (to somebody/something)" means to have a subordinate or inferior role to someone or something else. It implies being in a position of lesser importance, influence, or power compared to another person, group, or thing. It suggests that one is not the primary focus or leader in a particular situation.
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fiddle about (with something)
The idiom "fiddle about (with something)" refers to engaging in a task or activity in a casual, aimless, or unproductive manner. It implies wasting time, tinkering, or fussing with something without making meaningful progress or achieving a specific goal.
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a face as long as a fiddle
The idiom "a face as long as a fiddle" is typically used to describe someone who looks sad, disappointed, or dejected. It implies that the person's expression is so long and downcast that it resembles the elongated shape of a fiddle.
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hang up your fiddle when you come home
The idiom "hang up your fiddle when you come home" means to give up or cease engaging in a particular activity or hobby when returning to one's own environment or personal life. It implies that one should set aside their professional or extracurricular pursuits and focus on more personal matters or responsibilities. The phrase originates from the practice of hanging up a musical instrument, such as a fiddle (a type of violin), upon returning home, symbolizing a shift in attention or priorities.
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fiddle (someone) out of (something)
The idiom "fiddle (someone) out of (something)" means to deceive, trick, or cheat someone out of something, typically through manipulative or dishonest tactics. It implies depriving a person of something valuable or advantageous through cunning actions or deceitful behavior.
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fiddle with
The idiom "fiddle with" means to manipulate, adjust, or handle something in a restless or absent-minded manner, often without producing any significant outcome or result. It refers to engaging in small, insignificant, or superficial actions without a clear purpose or goal.
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fiddle with (something)
The idiom "fiddle with (something)" means to tinker or play around with an object, usually in a restless or nervous manner, without any specific purpose or goal in mind. It implies minimal or aimless manipulation or adjustment of something without actually achieving any substantial progress or improvement.
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hang up (one's) fiddle
The idiom "hang up (one's) fiddle" means to retire or give up a particular skill, talent, or activity, typically due to age or lack of interest. It implies putting an end to one's involvement or pursuit of something. The phrase derives from the act of literally hanging up a fiddle, which symbolizes the cessation of playing or performing music.
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hang up your fiddle
The idiom "hang up your fiddle" means to retire or give up a particular skill, talent, or profession. It suggests that someone is choosing to stop pursuing or practicing a particular activity or occupation.
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on the fiddle
The idiom "on the fiddle" typically refers to someone engaging in dishonest or fraudulent activities, particularly in terms of financial misconduct or embezzlement. It describes a person who is systematically and secretly taking or misusing money for personal gain, often in an illegal or deceitful manner.
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play first fiddle
The idiom "play first fiddle" means to have the most important or prominent role in a particular situation or to be in a position of leadership or control. It refers to the first violin, or concertmaster, in an orchestra who has the principal role and leads the other musicians. Therefore, "playing first fiddle" indicates being at the forefront or taking the lead in a given scenario.
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play second fiddle to
The idiom "play second fiddle to" means to be in a subordinate or less important position compared to someone else, or to be seen as less significant or influential. It derives from the orchestral hierarchy, where the first violinist (or concertmaster) holds the most prominent position, and the second violinist is considered of lesser importance.
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second fiddle
The idiom "second fiddle" is a phrase that refers to a person or thing playing a subordinate or supporting role, always being in a position of lesser importance or prominence compared to someone or something else. It originates from the world of music, where the second violin or fiddle traditionally plays a supporting role to the first violin, which carries the melody. Thus, being in the "second fiddle" means being in a subordinate position or being overlooked in favor of another person or thing.
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fiddle around (with something)
The idiom "fiddle around (with something)" means to spend time or occupy oneself by handling or tinkering with something in a casual or nonproductive way. It implies engaging with an object or activity without a specific goal or outcome in mind, often involving aimless experimentation or exploration.
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fiddle something away
The idiom "fiddle something away" means to waste or squander something, typically time, money, or resources, in a careless or frivolous manner. It implies the act of using or handling something inefficiently or irresponsibly, resulting in its loss or diminishing value.
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fiddle with someone or something
The idiom "fiddle with someone or something" refers to the act of manipulating, adjusting, or tinkering with someone or something in a restless or absentminded manner. It implies repeatedly and aimlessly making small and unnecessary changes without achieving any meaningful result.
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get played like a fiddle
The idiom "get played like a fiddle" means to be deceived, tricked, or manipulated easily or effectively. It refers to being taken advantage of or outsmarted in a situation. The phrase draws an analogy to the way a skilled musician can effortlessly control and manipulate a fiddle to produce desired sounds, similar to how someone may manipulate or deceive another person.
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play (someone) like a fiddle
The idiom "play (someone) like a fiddle" means to manipulate or control someone easily and skillfully, often for personal gain or advantage. It implies that the person being manipulated is easily influenced and unaware of the ulterior motives or actions of the person manipulating them, similar to how one plays a musical instrument effortlessly.
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couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle
The idiom "couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle" is an exaggerated and humorous expression used to describe someone's complete lack of accuracy or aim. It suggests that the person is so inept or clumsy that they wouldn't be able to hit even the largest and easiest target.
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fiddle while Rome burns
The idiom "fiddle while Rome burns" is derived from the historical event of the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD, during the reign of Emperor Nero. It refers to the act of engaging in trivial or unimportant activities while a crisis or significant issue is occurring, often to the detriment or neglect of more pressing matters. It signifies a lack of concern, awareness, or action about a serious situation, emphasizing the futility or indifference of one's actions in the face of impending disaster.
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be played like a fiddle
The idiom "be played like a fiddle" means to be easily manipulated or deceived, to be controlled or influenced to one's disadvantage. It implies that someone has been deceived or taken advantage of in a clever or crafty manner, similar to how a musician plays a fiddle skillfully.
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have more than one string to one's fiddle
The idiom "have more than one string to one's fiddle" refers to a person's ability or skill to do various things or have multiple talents or options beyond what is expected or commonly known. It suggests that someone is versatile, resourceful, and capable of pursuing different interests or pursuits.
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have more than one string to fiddle
The idiom "have more than one string to fiddle" means to have multiple options, skills, or resources available in a particular situation. It denotes being versatile, adaptable, or having multiple approaches to deal with a given task or problem. It suggests being prepared or having alternative plans to ensure success or overcome obstacles.
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hang up (one's) fiddle when (one) comes home
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fiddle-fart
This idiom is a playful way of describing someone who is wasting time or fooling around, rather than getting something done.
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belly fiddle
Similar spelling words for FIDDLE
Conjugate verb Fiddle
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have fiddled
you
would have fiddled
he/she/it
would have fiddled
we
would have fiddled
they
would have fiddled
I
would have fiddle
you
would have fiddle
he/she/it
would have fiddle
we
would have fiddle
they
would have fiddle
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been fiddling
you
would have been fiddling
he/she/it
would have been fiddling
we
would have been fiddling
they
would have been fiddling
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would fiddle
you
would fiddle
he/she/it
would fiddle
we
would fiddle
they
would fiddle
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be fiddling
you
would be fiddling
he/she/it
would be fiddling
we
would be fiddling
they
would be fiddling
FUTURE
I
will fiddle
you
will fiddle
he/she/it
will fiddle
we
will fiddle
they
will fiddle
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be fiddling
you
will be fiddling
he/she/it
will be fiddling
we
will be fiddling
they
will be fiddling
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have fiddled
you
will have fiddled
he/she/it
will have fiddled
we
will have fiddled
they
will have fiddled
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been fiddling
you
will have been fiddling
he/she/it
will have been fiddling
we
will have been fiddling
they
will have been fiddling
IMPERATIVE
you
fiddle
we
let´s fiddle
to fiddle
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was fiddling
you
were fiddling
he/she/it
was fiddling
we
were fiddling
they
were fiddling
PAST PARTICIPLE
fiddled
PAST PERFECT
I
had fiddled
you
had fiddled
he/she/it
had fiddled
we
had fiddled
they
had fiddled
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been fiddling
you
had been fiddling
he/she/it
had been fiddling
we
had been fiddling
they
had been fiddling
PRESENT
I
fiddle
you
fiddle
he/she/it
fiddles
we
fiddle
they
fiddle
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am fiddling
you
are fiddling
he/she/it
is fiddling
we
are fiddling
they
are fiddling
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
fiddling
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have fiddled
you
have fiddled
he/she/it
has fiddled
we
have fiddled
they
have fiddled
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been fiddling
you
have been fiddling
he/she/it
has been fiddling
we
have been fiddling
they
have been fiddling
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
fiddle
SIMPLE PAST
I
fiddled
you
fiddled
he/she/it
fiddled
we
fiddled
they
fiddled
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