fiddle faddle etymology

Etymology

"Fiddlefaddle" is a reduplicative formation, combining "fiddle" (in the sense of "trifle" or "nonsense") with "faddle" (also meaning "nonsense" or "petty talk").

Meaning

"Fiddlefaddle" means trivial or insignificant nonsense, or fussiness about unimportant matters. It can also refer to actions or behavior that is silly or pointless.

Origin

The word "fiddle" has been used to mean "trifle" or "nonsense" since the early 15th century. The word "faddle" has a similar meaning and has been used since the late 16th century. The reduplicative formation "fiddlefaddle" first appeared in the early 18th century.

Usage

"Fiddlefaddle" is often used in a humorous or dismissive way to refer to something that is considered unimportant or silly. For example, someone might say, "Don't bother me with all that fiddlefaddle." The word can also be used to describe someone who is fussy or overly concerned with trivial matters. For example, someone might say, "She's always fussing about fiddlefaddle."

Synonyms

  • Nonsense
  • Triviality
  • Pettiness
  • Silliness
  • Fussiness

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