Definition of the word tiddly

The term "tiddly" has an uncertain and debated origin, with multiple theories proposed by different linguistic experts. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word's first recorded use was in the late 16th century in the phrase "tiddilymons," which was a corruption of "thotten monks" or "mummies." Another theory suggests that "tiddly" may have originated from the Old English word "tidde" which means "time" or "season." This hypothesis assumes that the word evolved to describe something that is unsteady or out of place at a certain time or season. But one of the most plausible accepted theories for the origin of "tiddly" is that it came from the Dutch word "tiest," which was used in the 17th century as a term for drunkenness. The English sailors who were trading with the Dutch may have picked up the term "tiest" and adapted it into "tiddify" or "tiddilly," meaning "somewhat tipsy or drunk." These theories, however, are still subject to debate, as the etymology of some words is not always clear or straightforward. Nevertheless, the current popular explanation for how "tiddly" came about suggests that it is a nautical term, connected to the culture and dialects of seafaring communities.