time suck

American  

[tahym-suhk] / ˈtaɪmˌsʌk /

Or time-suck or timesuck

noun

Informal.

1. something that takes up too much of one's time.

   Social media is addictive and a huge time suck when I should be studying.

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Etymology

Origin of time suck

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

time suck

In the memo outlining ICE’s new policy, then-acting director Todd Lyons said the increased visits by members of Congress have become a burden and a time suck.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 12, 2026

Let’s face it: The modern airport is a time suck.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 15, 2026

“You're such a fascinating person,” she gushes as she launches into their 61-minute time suck.

From Salon ● Oct. 27, 2023

"We're asking them to be exceptional in athletics, academics and this other new thing, without realising how much of a time suck it can be."

From BBC ● Sep. 5, 2023

I used to just put a whole bunch of them in my mouth at the same time, suck all the salt off, then spit them all out machine-gun-style.

From "Ghost" by Jason Reynolds