| 释义 |
twiddling, vbl. n.|ˈtwɪdlɪŋ|
[f. twiddle v.1 + -ing1.]
The action of the verb twiddle; twirling; trifling.
twiddling line (Naut.), a light line formerly used to steady or secure the wheel; now, a line attached to the compass-box, by which the card may be jerked free when caught.
1847Thackeray Sk. Lond. (1891) 166 A chin-tuft is a cheap enjoyment.., and the twiddling it about..a harmless amusement. 1867Smyth Sailor's Word-bk., Twiddling-line, a piece of small rope ornamentally fitted and used for steadying the steering-wheel when required: no longer used. 1882Nares Seamanship (ed. 6) 195 The rudder..must be secured..with the twiddling lines. 1890Daily News 3 Nov. 3/1 Jerry builders and draughtsmen, with their mindless twiddlings in stone and brick. 1906Spectator 6 Jan. 10/2 That dance..interspersed with meaningless bowings, scrapings, and twiddlings in odd corners. |