The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

dabble

IPA:

Dictionary definition of dabble

To engage in an activity or pursuit in a casual or superficial way, without committing oneself fully or becoming deeply involved.
"The young entrepreneur decided to dabble in the stock market."

Detailed meaning of dabble

It can also refer to the act of doing something in a light-hearted or playful manner. The term can be used in a variety of contexts, such as dabbling in art, dabbling in a new hobby, or dabbling in a new language. Dabbling often implies a lack of seriousness or commitment, and it can indicate that the individual is not fully invested or knowledgeable about the activity in question. Dabbling is usually done with the purpose of trying out something new or to gain some experience without committing to it fully.

Example sentences containing dabble

1. Magda likes to dabble in painting during her free time.
2. James enjoys dabbling with different musical instruments.
3. I occasionally dabble in photography as a hobby.
4. She decided to dabble in learning French for her upcoming trip to Paris.
5. The scientist decided to dabble in a new research field.
6. He likes to dabble in cooking and experiment with new recipes.

History and etymology of dabble

The verb 'dabble' has its etymological origins in Middle Dutch. It is related to the Dutch word 'dabbelen,' which means 'to splash' or 'to paddle.' This original sense of splashing water was later extended metaphorically to describe engaging in an activity or pursuit in a casual or superficial manner, much like one might playfully splash around in water without fully immersing themselves. 'Dabble' conveys the idea of testing the waters, trying something out without making a deep commitment or becoming extensively involved. It implies a certain level of curiosity or experimentation rather than a wholehearted dedication to a particular endeavor. Thus, the etymology of 'dabble' highlights its historical connection to the notion of lightly engaging in an activity, akin to the way one might playfully splash in a pool.

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Further usage examples of dabble

1. The children were encouraged to dabble in various sports to find their interests.
2. She began to dabble in writing short stories after reading a captivating novel.
3. The artist liked to dabble with different art mediums to explore her creativity.
4. He was known to dabble in politics and express his opinions on social issues.
5. The students were encouraged to dabble in different subjects to discover their passions.
6. She decided to dabble in gardening and planted a small vegetable patch.
7. He likes to dabble in woodworking and has built several furniture pieces.
8. The professor advised his students to dabble in different research areas before specializing.
9. The young writer decided to dabble in poetry and wrote a collection of heartfelt verses.
10. She dabbled in computer programming and developed a simple mobile app.
11. He decided to dabble in yoga and attend a few introductory classes.
12. The company wanted to dabble in new markets to expand their business.
13. She decided to dabble in interior design and redecorated her living room.
14. She liked to dabble in painting but never pursued it seriously.
15. He would dabble in different hobbies, never mastering one.
16. They dabble in photography as a fun weekend activity.
17. She decided to dabble in cooking new recipes occasionally.
18. He tends to dabble in various sports, trying something new each season.
19. They enjoy dabbling in gardening, experimenting with different plants.
20. She would occasionally dabble in writing short stories.
21. He chose to dabble in learning a few phrases of different languages.
22. They dabble in DIY projects when they have spare time.
23. She likes to dabble in fashion design as a creative outlet.
24. He decided to dabble in music, trying his hand at playing the guitar.