Lallygag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lallygag

[หˆlรฆl.i.ษกรฆษก ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

wasting time

To lallygag means to spend time aimlessly or to waste time without any purpose. It often implies a carefree or lazy attitude towards responsibilities or tasks.

Synonyms

dawdle, fritter, idle, loaf, lounge.

Examples of usage

  • Stop lallygagging and start your homework.
  • We lallygagged in the park instead of going to the movie.
  • He tends to lallygag on weekends, doing nothing productive.
  • They were just lallygagging around the house all day.

Translations

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Origin of 'lallygag'

The term 'lallygag' originated in the United States during the mid-19th century. Its first known use was documented in the 1850s. The exact etymology is uncertain, but it is believed to be a combination of 'lally' and 'gag', with 'gag' likely referring to chatter or nonsense. The word reflects a playful and whimsical attitude towards time, emphasizing a lack of urgency or seriousness. Over time, 'lallygag' has maintained its informal and somewhat humorous connotation, often used to describe a lighthearted or carefree way of spending one's time.