FIDDLESTICKS

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Dawg Sez 12:

Fiddlesticks is a derisive phrase commonly used to express disappointment and disbelief over some bit of nonsense.

Literally derived from fiddle stick, the bow used to play the violin; originally the wording was 'I don't give a fiddlestick's end'. The reference here is clearly to something of insignificance. Since the 14th century, when it first appeared, the phrase was shortened and has taken on a more pejorative cast.

Fiddlesticks became rather popular in all likely hood solely due to its amusing sound. Other such phrases are scuttlebutt, lickspittle, and snollygoster.

Click the link to see Cajun fiddler Dewey Balfa and friend working the sticks:

fiddle sticks