English Reference
noun · verb

potter

n. · v.
US /ˈpɑtɝ/ UK /pˈɒtɐ/ pot·ter UK spelling potter's, potter's, pottered

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.someone who makes pots, bowls, and plates out of clay.

    n.a person who manufactures earthenware, stoneware, or porcelain vessels.

    Simple

    The potter used a spinning wheel to shape the wet clay into a beautiful vase.

    In context

    The local potter specialises in salt-glazed stoneware, drawing inspiration from traditional techniques used in the region for centuries.

    ceramicistartisan
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    v.to spend time doing small, easy tasks in a relaxed way without a clear plan.

    v.to occupy oneself in a desultory but pleasant manner; to move about without a specific goal.

    Simple

    On Sundays, he likes to potter about in the garden, pulling a few weeds and watering the plants.

    In context

    After retiring, she spent most of her mornings pottering around the house, attending to minor repairs that she had neglected for years.

    Usage

    often used with the particles 'about' or 'around'

    Teacher's tip

    In American English, the spelling 'putter' is used for this same meaning.

    putterdawdletinker
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated