tinker

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a person who enjoys fixing and experimenting with machines and their parts
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
noun small mackerel found nearly worldwide

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

The lady will want to tinker with that herself. — The best short stories of 1919, and the yearbook of the American short story, Unknown
In the meantime Bob was tinkering with the plugs. — Walter and the Wireless, Sara Ware Bassett
I tinkered that up to rights, and come away. — The Talking Horse, and Other Tales, F. Anstey

tinkerer

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