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Definition of fiddly

fiddly

/ˈfɪd.li/
fid · dly
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fiddly Lexical Profile

fiddly Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

British Complicated or detailed and therefore awkward to do or use, especially because of involving very small parts.

Example

"Replacing the tiny battery inside the wristwatch proved to be a rather fiddly job."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for fiddly

• Nearby Words

fiddler
fiddlesticks
fiddling
fiddly
fidelity
fidget
fidgeter

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from the verb 'fiddle' (meaning to make small, restless movements with the fingers) combined with the adjectival suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fiddly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fiddly
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