What is twiddling thumbs?

Twiddling thumbs is a common and often subconscious hand movement where a person rotates their thumbs around each other, typically when feeling bored, nervous, or idle. This action can be a form of self-soothing or a way to occupy the hands during moments of downtime.

While twiddling thumbs may be seen as a harmless habit, it can also be a sign of anxiety or restlessness. Some people may do it as a way to release tension or redirect nervous energy.

Overall, twiddling thumbs is a common behavior that varies in meaning and significance depending on the individual and the context in which it occurs.