Definition

A restless or nervous movement, often involving small actions like tapping fingers or shifting in a seat.

Example

His fidgeting during the meeting made it hard for others to concentrate.

Conversation

I noticed you were fidgeting during the meeting today.

Yeah, I always get a bit restless when I have to sit still for too long.

Same here! I can't help but feel anxious when I'm fidgeting like that.

Maybe we should take breaks more often to stretch our legs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make small movements, especially with your hands and feet, because you are nervous or restless.

Example

She was fidgeting in her seat during the long meeting.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I noticed you've been fidgeting a lot during the meeting.

Yeah, I always get nervous when I have to speak in front of people.

I can relate! Sometimes I catch myself fidgeting with my pen too.

Root Explanation

Fidgeting → It is derived from the word 'fidget' (originating from Middle English *fijeten*, meaning to move about restlessly) with the addition of the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process of). The word 'fidgeting' refers to the act of moving about restlessly or nervously.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'moving about restlessly' — that's what fidgeting means, and the '-ing' shows it's an ongoing action.

Visually Confused Words