Background for fiddles

fiddles

/ˈfɪdəl̩z/ /ˈfɪdəlz/

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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 often plays lively Irish tunes on his fiddles. "

music entertainment tradition

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noun

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

Examples :

"The gardener pointed out the fiddles growing among the other weeds in the flowerbed, explaining their unusual leaf shape. "

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 technical job work

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noun

A fraud; a scam.

Examples :

"The company was shut down after investigators discovered financial fiddles that had been going on for years. "

business economy finance law

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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 ship's fiddles helped keep the crates of fruit from sliding overboard during the rough storm. "

nautical sailing vehicle utensil

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verb

To play aimlessly.

Examples :

"While waiting for the bus, she fiddles with her phone, scrolling through apps without really looking at anything. "

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 economy finance law

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verb

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

Examples :

"My grandfather often fiddles old Irish songs on his violin after dinner. "

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 :

"While waiting for the interview to start, Mark nervously fiddles with his pen. "

action mind human attitude