doodle
2 synonyms for doodle, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To draw or scribble absent-mindedly, usually while thinking about something else.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To draw or scribble absent-mindedly, usually while thinking about something else.
“He doodled little stars in the margin during the meeting.”
How to use doodle
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
doodle in the margin
idle doodle
doodle on a napkin
Etymology
Originally a dialect word meaning "fool" or "simpleton," from a Low German word for someone who plays the bagpipes badly; the modern "aimless sketching" sense only emerged in the 1930s, likely influenced by "dawdle."
Full origin of doodle →Frequently asked questions
What does “doodle” mean?
The word “doodle” means to draw or scribble absent-mindedly, usually while thinking about something else. In plain terms, to scribble or sketch idly without really trying, or the little drawing that results.
How do you pronounce “doodle”?
“Doodle” is pronounced DOODL (/ˈdud(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “doodle” in a sentence?
Here is “doodle” used in a sentence: “He doodled little stars in the margin during the meeting.”
What part of speech is “doodle”?
Depending on how it is used, “doodle” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “doodle” come from?
The word “doodle” dates back to around 1930 and comes from German. Originally a dialect word meaning "fool" or "simpleton," from a Low German word for someone who plays the bagpipes badly; the modern "aimless sketching" sense only emerged in the 1930s, likely influenced by "dawdle.".
Is “doodle” a common word?
“Doodle” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “doodle” have?
“Doodle” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to draw or scribble absent-mindedly, usually while thinking about something else.
