Twiddled

To manipulate or fiddle with something idly or nervously, often with the fingers. It suggests a sense of impatience, boredom, or absentmindedness. This action often involves a repetitive movement, such as turning something around, smoothing it, or tapping it. The object being twiddled can range from small items like a pen or a strand of hair to larger objects like a steering wheel or a dial. The purpose is rarely productive but serves to occupy one's attention or provide a sense of comfort or release. Twiddling can communicate a feeling of restlessness, uncertainty, or disinterest, depending on the context.

Twiddled meaning with examples

• As the suspense built during the exam results announcement, Sarah nervously twiddled her thumbs. She could barely contain her anxiety, the repetitive motion a physical manifestation of her internal turmoil. The act served as a way to channel her stress, but the time felt as if it was stretching, each second an eternity.
• Lost in thought during the meeting, Mark began to twiddle with his pen. He was tuning out the presenter and letting his mind drift, the pen’s constant rotation a gentle rhythm that accompanied his daydreams. The other participants did not notice his distraction as the sound from the pen was faint.
• The child, bored during the long car ride, incessantly twiddled with the car's radio dials, much to his parents' annoyance. Each click and spin filled the otherwise quiet journey with chaotic sounds. His hands were on a mission to make the ride more entertaining.
• At the audition, she attempted to appear calm, but her nervous energy manifested as she twiddled the corner of the script. The action gave her something to focus on, as it allowed her mind to drift further away and take the focus from the judges. This physical gesture betrayed her apprehension.