English Meaning & Definitions
To make small, restless movements, especially of the hands or feet, typically due to nervousness, impatience, or boredom.
- “He started to fidget in his chair during the long, tedious lecture.”
- “Stop fidgeting with your pen while I am trying to explain the instructions.”
A state of restlessness or a small, jerky movement.
- “She had a nervous fidget that made her tap her foot constantly.”
- “The child was full of fidgets, unable to sit still for more than a minute.”
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “fidget”.
Originating in the late 16th century, the word likely derives from the Middle English 'fidge' (to twitch or move about), which is possibly related to the Old Norse 'fīkjast' meaning 'to be eager' or 'to move restlessly'. It is thought to be an onomatopoeic or expressive formation reflecting the jerky, nervous nature of the movement.
Think of a 'fit' of 'jitters'—when you have the jitters, you fidget.
Frequently Asked Questions About “fidget”
1. What is the meaning of “fidget” in English?
In English, fidget (verb) is defined as: “To make small, restless movements, especially of the hands or feet, typically due to nervousness, impatience, or boredom.”.
2. How do you use “fidget” in a sentence?
“He started to fidget in his chair during the long, tedious lecture.”
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “fidget”?
Originating in the late 16th century, the word likely derives from the Middle English 'fidge' (to twitch or move about), which is possibly related to the Old Norse 'fīkjast' meaning 'to be eager' or 'to move restlessly'. It is thought to be an onomatopoeic or expressive formation reflecting the jerky, nervous nature of the movement.
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