piddling

UK: ˈpɪd.lɪŋ | US: ˈpɪd.lɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. trivial or insignificant

  2. adj. petty or frivolous

  3. adj. (archaic) urinating

Structure
piddle <to urinate/to trifle>ing <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "piddling" originates from the verb "piddle," which initially meant "to urinate" (16th century, likely imitative of the sound of trickling liquid). By the 18th century, "piddle" evolved to mean "to spend time on trivial tasks," reflecting the idea of wasting time or energy on unimportant matters. The suffix "-ing" transforms it into an adjective, emphasizing the notion of insignificance or triviality. The dual meanings—both literal (urination) and figurative (petty actions)—highlight how language can playfully expand from concrete to abstract concepts.

Examples

  1. Stop worrying about these piddling details and focus on the main issue.

  2. He wasted the afternoon on piddling tasks instead of finishing his report.

  3. (Archaic) The child was scolded for piddling in the garden.

  4. The budget cuts affected only piddling expenses, leaving major projects untouched.

  5. She dismissed his argument as piddling and irrelevant.