fiddlestick

American  

[fid-l-stik] / ˈfɪd lˌstɪk /

noun

1. anything; a bit.

   I don't care a fiddlestick for what they say.

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fiddlestick British  

/ ˈfɪdəlˌstɪk /

noun

1. informal a violin bow

2. any meaningless or inconsequential thing; trifle

3. an expression of annoyance or disagreement

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Etymology

Origin of fiddlestick

First recorded in 1400–50, fiddlestick is from the late Middle English word fidillstyk. See fiddle, stick ¹

Example Sentences

His ears are perpetually drilled with a fiddlestick.

From Character Writings of the 17th Century by Various

"Cat's foot, fiddlestick, folderol, fudge!" remarked Mrs. Tree, blandly.

From Mrs. Tree by Richards, Laura Elizabeth Howe

In his hands he clutched a fiddle and fiddlestick.

From The International Monthly, Volume 3, No. 1, April, 1851 by Various

"Swiss fiddlestick," retorted Schillie, "my dear girls, if you think I shall break my back and spoil my hands ornamenting a house for you, you will find yourselves wonderfully deceived."

From Yr Ynys Unyg The Lonely Island by Winton, Julia de

"Monsieur mon beau fiddlestick, papa!" says Miss Lambert, and I have no doubt complies with the paternal orders.

From The Virginians by Thackeray, William Makepeace