Dawdling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dawdling
[ˈdɔːd(ə)lɪŋ ]
Definition
slow movement
To dawdle means to waste time, to move slowly and lazily, or to linger aimlessly. It often implies a lack of urgency or purpose in one's actions.
Synonyms
loiter, lollygag, procrastinate, saunter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dawdling |
This word is used when someone is moving or acting slowly, often wasting time by not being efficient. It can be used in both casual and serious situations.
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| loiter |
Loitering is used when someone is staying in a place without any apparent purpose, often in a public space. It can have a negative connotation, especially if it seems suspicious or unwelcome.
|
| lollygag |
Lollygag means to spend time aimlessly, often in a leisurely or playful way. It is more informal and has a lighthearted, somewhat humorous tone.
|
| procrastinate |
Procrastinate is used when someone delays or postpones doing something they should be doing, often resulting in negative consequences. It is frequently used in contexts related to work, study, or responsibilities.
|
| saunter |
Saunter describes walking in a slow, relaxed manner, without hurry or effort, often used to convey a sense of confidence or leisure.
|
Examples of usage
- He spent the afternoon dawdling in the park.
- She dawdled along the path, enjoying the scenery.
- Don't dawdle, we're already late for the meeting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Dawdling can be a form of procrastination, often linked to fear of failure or perfectionism.
- Research suggests that some people may dawdle to avoid tasks that seem overwhelming or uninteresting.
- Interestingly, taking breaks (sometimes mistaken for dawdling) can enhance productivity and creativity.
Pop Culture
- In children's literature, characters who dawdle often find themselves in humorous situations, like Winnie-the-Pooh delaying his visit to a friend.
- The term has been popularized in various cartoons where characters are comically slow, reinforcing the notion of taking one's time.
- Songs and stories often feature dawdling as a theme, celebrating the joy of taking things slowly in a fast-paced world.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, being in a hurry is frowned upon, and taking your time is seen as a sign of wisdom and patience.
- The concept of 'dawdling' is often associated with childhood, where wandering and exploring can be seen as more valuable than efficient task completion.
- During the Renaissance, leisurely activities were often encouraged as a means to foster creativity and enjoyment in life.
Literature
- Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens used characters who dawdled to critique society's hurried nature.
- In 'Alice in Wonderland', Alice’s encounters often involve characters that dawdle, leading to whimsical adventures.
- Poets often celebrate the art of dawdling as a way to appreciate nature and the beauty around us.
Origin of 'dawdling'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dawdle' comes from the late 16th century, likely derived from the word 'dawd', which means to waste time.
- In medieval England, 'dawdler' described someone who loafs or loiters, showcasing a long-standing view of laziness.
- The suffix '-ling' often indicates a person who does something, in this case, someone who dawdles.
The word 'dawdle' originated in the early 19th century and is believed to have derived from the Scottish word 'daw', meaning to idle or waste time. Over time, 'dawdle' has come to represent a leisurely or aimless manner of moving or spending time.