Definition

A person who enjoys fixing, making, or improving things, often in a casual or experimental way.

Example

He is a tinkerer who loves to build gadgets in his garage.

Conversation

I just found out that my neighbor is a real tinkerer.

Oh really? What does he like to tinker with?

He builds all sorts of gadgets; it's fascinating to watch him work.

That sounds awesome! I wish I could be a tinkerer like him.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tinkerer → The word 'tinkerer' is derived from 'tinker' (from Middle English *tinkere*, meaning a mender of pots and pans) with the addition of the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A tinkerer is a person who mends or repairs things, often in a casual or experimental manner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'mends' things ('tinker') and the '-er' just means a person. A tinkerer is someone who enjoys fixing or experimenting with objects.

Visually Confused Words