Definition

To engage in activities without a clear purpose or direction, often in a leisurely or aimless way.

Example

He spent the afternoon puttering around the garden, not really doing anything productive.

Tense Forms

Conversation

What have you been up to lately?

Oh, just puttering around the house, you know how it is.

I feel like I should be more productive, but sometimes it's nice to just putter a bit.

Exactly! A little aimless time can be refreshing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of golf club that is short and used for making short, precise strokes on the green to roll the ball into the hole.

Example

He used his putter to sink the ball into the hole on the final hole of the game.

Conversation

I finally bought a new putter for the golf game this weekend.

Nice! What brand did you choose?

I went with the one everyone recommends — it feels really good in my hands.

Definition

To spend time doing something in a relaxed or aimless way, often involving small tasks or activities.

Example

He puttered around the house, fixing things and enjoying his day off.

Tense Forms

Conversation

What did you do all weekend?

I just puttered around the house, nothing special.

Sometimes that's the best way to relax, though.

Root Explanation

The word 'putter' originates from the Middle English 'putten', meaning to push or thrust. It is derived from the Old English 'putian', which also means to push or to put something down. The word 'putter' refers to a person who puts or pushes something, often used in the context of golf where it describes a club used for making short strokes on the green.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'pushing' or 'thrusting' something down — that's why a 'putter' is a club used to push the ball gently into the hole.

Visually Confused Words