hantieren
Translation
to handle, to potter about, to fiddle with, to be busy with
Examples
Er hantiert geschickt mit den Werkzeugen.
He handles the tools skillfully.
Sie hantiert in der Küche am Herd.
She is pottering about at the stove in the kitchen.
Hantiere nicht mit dem kaputten Gerät!
Don't fiddle with the broken device!
Grammar Patterns
((mit+3)) to handle (sth.) He is handling tools.
((an+3)) to fiddle with (sth.) She is fiddling with the engine.
Similar Words
Synonyms: umgehen mit, fummeln, werkeln
Etymology
From French 'hanter' (to frequent), influenced by German 'Hand' (hand). It implies busy activity with the hands.
Memory Tips
Think of someone using their 'Hand' (hand) to 'hantieren' (handle) things, often in a busy but perhaps slightly clumsy or unfocused way.