lollygag

Also lal·ly·gag

[lol-ee-gag]

verb (used without object)

Informal.

lollygagged, lollygagging 

1. to spend time idly; loaf.

2. to indulge in kisses and caresses; make love; neck.

lollygag

/ ˈlɒlɪˌɡæɡ /

verb

1. (intr) a variant of lallygag

Word History and Origins

Origin of lollygag¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

“I can’t just be out there and just lollygagging around. I’ve got to be focused. I have to pay attention to all the little details. I have to be on cue and poised every game.”

Read more on Seattle Times

Friday brings the premiere of “Scott Pilgrim Takes Off,” an anime series based on the comic book about a young, lollygagging amateur bass player battling seven of his new love’s exes.

Read more on New York Times

Even the raucous home crowd was frustrated by the lollygagging.

Read more on Seattle Times

When he wants to serenade a love interest he can hardly believe wants him back on “Sweet,” he brings a drowsy drum loop and lollygagging chords to soundtrack his lyrics.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

On Monday evening, a Times reporter spotted the otter lollygagging along the coast between the lighthouse and the nearby surfer statue.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• clamber 
• creep 
• drag 
• inch 
• plod 
• poke 
• slide 
• slither 
• squirm 
• wriggle 

When To Use

What does lollygag mean?

To lollygag is to dilly-dally, dawdle, loaf around, or goof off. If you’re lollygagging, you’re wasting time by moving slowly or doing something less important than what you should be (or doing nothing at all).Lollygag is primarily used in the United States. It is synonymous with the very similar spelled lallygag, but lollygag is more commonly used. Both are very informal.Example: Coach yelled at Spencer for lollygagging at practice.