fiddle with

fiddle with (third-person singular simple present fiddles with, present participle fiddling with, simple past and past participle fiddled with)

1. To manipulate an object, especially in a nervous or restless manner.
2. To adjust the position, as of an electronic device, in order to provide better reception or signal.
   • 2000, Paul Scherz, Practical electronics for inventors, page 452:

     Fiddle with vertical VOLT/DIV knob until signal comes into view.

   • 2007, Sheryl J. Anderson, Killer Riff, page 49:

     As technology got better, he'd go back and fiddle with them, convinced he could clean them up enough for release.

3. (figuratively) To manipulate in order to gain something for oneself.
   • 2004, Jay P. DeCima, Start Small, Profit Big in Real Estate, page 65:

     Don't Fiddle With Sellers Who Have No Equity

• (to manipulate an object restlessly): play with, toy with
• (to adjust the position): tweak, adjust, tinker
• (to manipulate in order to gain something): mess with