noun
dilettante
dih-lih-TAN-tee
noun
1
Someone who dabbles in a subject or art out of casual interest rather than serious commitment.
"He’s more of a dilettante than a serious painter."
How to Use Dilettante
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual hobbyist who lacks real expertise or dedication, usually used somewhat critically.
When to use it
Often has a slightly negative or dismissive tone, implying shallow interest.
Word Forms
more dilettante comparative, dilettanti plural, dilettantes plural, most dilettante superlative
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Etymology
From Italian dilettante, "one who delights [in something]," from dilettare, "to delight."