# dabbled

/ˈdæbəɫd/ (US) · /dˈæbəld/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dabbled
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

tried to do something for a short time, but without being serious or professional. You use this when someone has only a little experience in a new area.

For teachers: engaged in an activity or interest for a short time without serious commitment or professional dedication. The past tense or past participle of 'dabble'.

## Examples

- She dabbled in painting during her summer holidays.
- Although he dabbled in several different sports as a child, he eventually decided to focus only on swimming.
- The author, who had dabbled in poetry during his university years, eventually found his true voice in the more structured form of the novel.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.