Background for fiddle

fiddle

/ˈfɪd(ə)l/ /ˈfɪdl̩/

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noun

Any of various bowed string instruments, often a violin when played in any of various traditional styles, as opposed to classical violin.

Examples :

"My grandfather plays the fiddle beautifully in the local folk music group. "

music entertainment style tradition

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noun

A kind of dock (Rumex pulcher) with leaves shaped like the musical instrument.

Examples :

"The garden's fiddle plant has beautiful, lyre-shaped leaves. "

plant biology nature

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noun

An adjustment intended to cover up a basic flaw.

Examples :

"That parameter setting is just a fiddle to make the lighting look right."

business finance

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noun

A fraud; a scam.

Examples :

"The charity was exposed as a complete fiddle, with donations being used for personal expenses. "

business finance economy

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noun

On board a ship or boat, a rail or batten around the edge of a table or stove to prevent objects falling off at sea. (Also fiddle rail)

Examples :

"The boat's fiddle rail kept the plates from sliding off the table during the rough sea. "

nautical sailing vehicle

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verb

To play aimlessly.

Examples :

"The child fidgeted with his pencil, fiddling with the eraser, and not paying attention to the lesson. "

action entertainment

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verb

To adjust or manipulate for deception or fraud.

Examples :

"Fred was sacked when the auditors caught him fiddling the books."

business law finance economy moral

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verb

To play traditional tunes on a violin in a non-classical style.

Examples :

"The musician fiddled a lively tune on his violin during the family picnic. "

music entertainment culture tradition

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verb

To touch or fidget with something in a restless or nervous way, or tinker with something in an attempt to make minor adjustments or improvements.

Examples :

"He fidgeted with his pen, tapping it nervously on the table while waiting for the teacher to start the test. "

action human tendency