dillydally
UK: ˈdɪliˌdæli | US: ˈdɪliˌdæli
vi. to waste time through indecision or aimless activity; dawdle
"Dillydally" is a playful reduplication of "dally," an Old English-derived verb meaning "to delay" or "linger." The nonsensical "dilly" prefix amplifies the sense of frivolous time-wasting, likely emerging in the 16th–17th centuries as English speakers favored rhythmic, repetitive words for humorous or emphatic effect (cf. "wishy-washy," "higgledy-piggledy"). The word’s sing-song structure mirrors its meaning—lighthearted procrastination.
Stop dillydallying and finish your homework!
We can’t afford to dillydally if we want to catch the train.
She dillydallied by the store window, unable to choose a gift.
The team’s dillydallying cost them the championship opportunity.
"No more dillydallying," the coach barked at the players.