dilly-dally

/ ˌdɪlɪˈdælɪ /

verb

1. informal.
   intr to loiter or vacillate

Word History and Origins

Origin of dilly-dally¹

C17: by reduplication from dally

Example Sentences

On August 28th, Donald Trump had had enough of his House Republicans dilly-dallying around.

From Salon

I think there must be people at Apple who want this, too, so I’m now respectfully requesting that the company stop dilly-dallying and make it happen.

From The Verge

It provided no timeframe for the exits but Fraser, who grew up in Scotland, told analysts there would be "no dilly-dallying" on executing the changes.

From Reuters

Anthony Costello, professor of global health at University College London, said “dilly-dallying” in March about whether to lock down the U.K. cost thousands of lives.

From Washington Times

So if the Patriots dilly-dally, suddenly Brady counts $13.5 million against the cap before New England has paid him a dime in future salary.

From Los Angeles Times