Tinker: meaning, definitions and examples

When making small adjustments or trying to fix something in a somewhat clumsy or experimental way, especially with mechanical or technical objects.

• He loves to tinker with old radios in his spare time.
• I spent the afternoon tinkering with my bike to get it back in working order.

When making small, aimless adjustments to something, often out of distraction or nervousness.

• Stop fiddling with your pen and pay attention to the meeting.
• She was fiddling with her hair while thinking about the problem.

When engaging in activities for amusement, leisure, or fun. This word is commonly used in the context of games, instruments, or with children.

• The children love to play in the park after school.
• He played the guitar beautifully during the concert.

When handling something in a casual, sometimes careless manner, often while thinking about something else. It can also imply playing with something not seriously.

• He toyed with his food, clearly distracted by something on his mind.
• She toyed with the idea of moving abroad but never made any concrete plans.