putter
verb (used without object)
to busy or occupy oneself in a leisurely, casual, or ineffective manner.
puttering
-
present participleof putter.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Shahed drones have been dubbed "flying mopeds" by Ukrainians because of their puttering engines.
From BBC ● Sep. 12, 2025
I guess a photo of her puttering around the garden or waving from a window might make some people feel better, but why on earth should she be expected to do that?
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 29, 2024
It’s a conceit that pays off the second a shambolic Michael Keaton makes his entrance as a graybeard puttering about a near-derelict Wayne Manor.
From New York Times ● Jun. 14, 2023
When you’re puttering around town, however, the Mercedes is the smoother of the two.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 29, 2023
The engine was out on the ground; he had been puttering with it for two days.
From "The Martian Chronicles" by Ray Bradbury
