tinker

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   try to fix or mend

   Can you tinker with the T.V. set--it's not working right

2. 2
   noun

   An itinerant tinsmith and mender of household utensils made of metal.

   The blacksmith chased us all to ground They searched all night we were never found The tinker boys and the sheriff's men Shaking the tallest tree.

3. 3
   noun

   An act of repair or invention.

   I'll have a tinker and see what I can do.

4. 4
   verb

   To fiddle with something in an attempt to fix, mend or improve it, especially in an experimental or unskilled manner.

   the broken bureau-lock and tinkered window-pane

5. 5
   noun

   small mackerel found nearly worldwide

6. 6
   noun

   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

7. 7
   noun

   a person who enjoys fixing and experimenting with machines and their parts

8. 8
   verb

   do random, unplanned work or activities or spend time idly

Etymology

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