dawdling

Dawdling is the act of wasting time or moving slowly, often in a way that delays action or decision. It can be intentional or unintentional, and it may occur in everyday activities as well as in work or study.

The verb dates to early modern English. The exact origin is uncertain, but etymologists have proposed connections to Dutch dwalen (to wander) or other Germanic roots related to wandering or straying.

As a verb, dawdle means to waste time by lingering or taking unnecessary breaks; as a noun, dawdling refers to the act itself. It is distinct from procrastination, which is a broader tendency to delay tasks for strategic or psychological reasons, whereas dawdling emphasizes pace and time-wasting behavior. Related terms include dilly-dally and loiter.

In school or workplace settings, dawdling can reduce productivity, affect meeting deadlines, and increase stress for others. In leisure contexts, it may reflect a relaxed pace or a deliberate savoring of the moment. Causes can include task ambiguity, fatigue, fear of failure, or poor time management. Signs include unnecessary pauses, extended breaks, and proceeding with tasks more slowly than needed.

People may counter dawdling by setting clear short-term goals, using timers, or breaking tasks into smaller steps. Cultural and organizational norms often influence attitudes toward pace and efficiency.