Definition

A person who tries out different activities or interests without committing to any of them seriously.

Example

He is a dabbler in painting, but he has never taken a class.

Conversation

I heard you started painting recently; are you enjoying it?

Yeah, but I'm just a dabbler right now, not really serious about it.

That's cool! Sometimes it's nice to just try new things without pressure.

Exactly! I think being a dabbler can be fun and relaxing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dabbler → The word originates from the Middle English 'dabblen', which means to splash or to wet. It is a frequentative form of 'dab', which means to touch lightly or to make a slight movement. A dabbler is someone who engages in an activity in a superficial or casual manner, as if splashing lightly in it.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'touches lightly' or 'splashes' in different activities without fully committing — that's what a dabbler does.

Visually Confused Words