Noodling: meaning, definitions and examples

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noodling

 

[ ˈnuːd.lɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

fishing technique

Noodling is a method of catching fish, particularly catfish, by hand. It involves wading into shallow water and using one's hands to feel for fish hiding in underwater holes or crevices. Upon locating a fish, the fisherman attempts to entice it to bite, often by inserting a hand into the hole.

Synonyms

grab fishing, hand fishing.

Examples of usage

  • They spent the afternoon noodling in the river.
  • Noodling requires patience and skill.
  • He went noodling for catfish last weekend.
Context #2 | Verb

playing an instrument

Noodling can also refer to playing musical notes in a spontaneous manner, often on a guitar or keyboard, without a structured composition. Musicians might noodle around with melodies or riffs to warm up or explore new ideas.

Synonyms

improvise, jam.

Examples of usage

  • She was noodling a tune on her guitar.
  • The band spent the session noodling in search of new sounds.
  • He loves noodling whenever he picks up his instrument.

Translations

Translations of the word "noodling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pescaria

🇮🇳 नूडलिंग

🇩🇪 Nudeln

🇮🇩 mi

🇺🇦 локшина

🇵🇱 makaron

🇯🇵 ヌードル

🇫🇷 nouilles

🇪🇸 fideos

🇹🇷 makarna

🇰🇷 국수

🇸🇦 نودلز

🇨🇿 nudle

🇸🇰 rezance

🇨🇳 面条

🇸🇮 rezanci

🇮🇸 nudlar

🇰🇿 лапша

🇬🇪 ნუდლები

🇦🇿 makaron

🇲🇽 fideos

Etymology

The term 'noodling' has its roots in American slang, particularly within the Southern United States, where it is linked to a unique fishing practice that dates back to indigenous peoples. It became popularized in the 20th century as a folk tradition, especially among anglers seeking catfish. The word itself likely derives from the playful and casual nature of the act, evoking the image of someone gently feeling around in the water, akin to the way one might noodle with their fingers. In the context of music, 'noodling' began to take on a new meaning in the mid-20th century, particularly among jazz and rock musicians who would often improvise and experiment with melodies. This dual use of the term showcases its adaptability and the creative spirit it embodies, both in fishing and music.