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Added 9 October 2026

tinker

/ˈtɪŋkə/ noun

noun Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about tinker at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

A person who enjoys fixing and experimenting with machines and their parts.
Formerly a person (traditionally a Gypsy) who traveled from place to place mending pots and kettles and other metal utensils as a way to earn a living.
Small mackerel found nearly worldwide.

verb

Do random, unplanned work or activities or spend time idly.
The old lady is usually mucking about in her little house
Work as a tinker or tinkerer.
Try to fix or mend.
Can you tinker with the T.V. set--it's not working right

Origin

From Middle English tynkere, perhaps from Old English *tincere, from tin (“tin”) + *cere, as in bēocere (“beekeeper”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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