"fiddle" Definition

Definitions for the word "fiddle" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
A stringed instrument of music played with a bow; a violin; a kit.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
A kind of dock (Rumex pulcher) with fiddle-shaped leaves; -- called also fiddle dock.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
A rack or frame of bars connected by strings, to keep table furniture in place on the cabin table in bad weather.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. i.
To play on a fiddle.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v. i.
To keep the hands and fingers actively moving as a fiddler does; to move the hands and fingers restlessy or in busy idleness; to trifle.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. v. t.
To play (a tune) on a fiddle.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
1 colloq. Or derog. Stringed instrument played with a bow, esp. A violin. 2 colloq. Cheat or fraud. 3 fiddly task. v. (-ling) 1 a (often foll. By with, at) play restlessly. B (often foll. By about) move aimlessly; waste time. C (usu. Foll. By with) adjust, tinker; tamper. 2 slang a cheat, swindle. B falsify. C get by cheating. 3 play (a tune) on the fiddle. as fit as a fiddle in very good health. Play second (or first) fiddle take a subordinate (or leading) role. [old english]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
8. slang
a sharper, “a street mugger.” In America, a swindle or an imposture.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864
9. slang
“to play second FIDDLE,” to act subordinately, or follow the lead of another. From the orchestral practice.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "fiddle" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "fiddle" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "fiddle") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

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