dillydally
verb (used without object)
to waste time, especially by indecision; vacillate; trifle; loiter.
dillydallying
-
present participleof dillydally.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By 2022, questions about Garland’s deliberative dillydallying became unavoidable.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 12, 2025
Let’s set aside the fact that Garvey is probably the last guy who should be dillydallying on his taxes.
From Slate ● May 29, 2024
"He's not going to be dillydallying," Fodeman said.
From Reuters ● Jan. 4, 2023
Now, a new session of Parliament is set to open on Monday — more than two months after the election, a period opposition parties have complained has been unnecessary dillydallying.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 21, 2021
“You have patients of your own to deal with. Let’s get this young woman intubated and transferred to the OR. That will do her more good than all this dillydallying around!”
From "If I Stay" by Gayle Forman
