from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Potter \Pot"ter\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Pottered}; p. pr. & vb.
n. {Pottering}.] [Cf. W. pwtio to poke, or OD. poteren to
search one thoroughly, Sw. p[*a]ta, peta, to pick, E. pother,
put.]
1. To busy one's self with trifles; to labor with little
purpose, energy, of effect; to trifle; to putter; to
pother.
Syn: putter; pother.
[1913 Webster]
Pottering about the Mile End cottages. --Mrs.
Humphry Ward.
[1913 Webster]
2. To walk lazily or idly; to saunter.
[1913 Webster]