potter
UK: ˈpɒtə | US: ˈpɑːtər
n. a person who makes pottery
vi. to occupy oneself in a leisurely or ineffective way
The word "potter" derives from the Old English pottere, meaning "one who makes pots." The root "pot" traces back to Proto-Germanic puttaz (vessel) and Latin pottus (drinking cup), reflecting its ancient association with containers. The suffix "-er" denotes an agent, forming a noun for someone who performs the action (e.g., making pots). Over time, the verb sense ("to dawdle") emerged metaphorically, likening idle activity to a potter’s slow, meticulous work.
The potter shaped the clay into a delicate vase.
He spent the afternoon pottering around the garden.
She apprenticed with a master potter to learn traditional techniques.
Stop pottering and focus on your tasks!
The village is famous for its centuries-old potter’s workshop.