dawdle
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈdɔːdəl/
KK: /ˈdɔːdəl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To spend time doing something slowly or without purpose, often wasting time instead of being productive.
Example
She tends to dawdle in the morning, making her late for school.
Tense Forms
Past: dawdled
Past Participle: dawdled
Conversation
Why do you always dawdle when we go to the café?
I just like to take my time and enjoy the walk.
But we could be there already if you didn't dawdle so much!
True, but rushing takes away the fun of it!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
linger
tarry
dally
Antonyms
hasten
rush
speed
transitive verb
Definition
To waste time by being slow or not doing things quickly.
Example
She tends to dawdle when she should be getting ready for school.
Tense Forms
Past: dawdled
Past Participle: dawdled
Conversation
Hey, why are you just sitting there?
I'm not doing much, just trying not to dawdle too much today.
It's easy to get distracted, isn't it?
Root Explanation
Dawdle originates from the Middle English 'dawdlen', which is of uncertain origin but may be related to the dialectal 'dawdle' meaning to waste time or move slowly. The word conveys the idea of lingering or wasting time without purpose.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'wasting time' or 'moving slowly' — that's what dawdle means.
Visually Confused Words
dandle
daidle
daddle
dale
dade