trifle: Meaning and Definition of

tri•fle

1. an article or thing of very little value.
2. a matter, affair, or circumstance of trivial importance or significance.
3. a small, inconsiderable, or trifling sum of money.
4. a small quantity or amount of anything; a little: She's still a trifle angry.
5. a literary, musical, or artistic work of a light or trivial character having no great or lasting merit; bagatelle.
6. a kind of pewter of medium hardness.
7. articles made of this.
8. a dessert usually consisting of custard and cake soaked in wine or liqueur, and jam, fruit, or the like.

1. to deal lightly or without due seriousness or respect: Don't trifle with me!
2. to play or toy by handling or fingering: He sat trifling with a pen.
3. to act or talk in an idle or frivolous way.
4. to pass time idly or frivolously; waste time; idle.

1. to pass or spend (time) idly or frivolously (usually fol. by away).