shillyshally

/ ˈʃɪlɪˌʃælɪ /

verb

1. intr to be indecisive, esp over unimportant matters; hesitate

adverb

1. in an indecisive manner

adjective

1. indecisive or hesitant

noun

1. indecision or hesitation; vacillation

Derived Forms

• ˈshillyˌshallier, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of shillyshally¹

C18: from shill I shall I, by reduplication of shall I

Example Sentences

Many more would in principle like the UK to stay, but are completely exasperated with London’s shillyshallying and feel it is more important for the rest of the EU to get on with saving itself.

From The Guardian

Doomy warnings that women need to stop shillyshallying and sprog up are published in the Daily Mail every day.

From The Guardian

What if he were to shillyshally when prompt action was urgent!

From Project Gutenberg

That's what she ought to have done, and have had a bit of a run for her money, instead of shillyshallying about with that idiot Strong—— And then a maiden speech will be given us.

From Project Gutenberg

"What fellow?" said Philip, "why, this one that is shillyshallying with you night after night."

From Project Gutenberg