What does DELAY mean?

Delay

Parts of Speech: verb, noun

Definitions:

1. (v.) to make something happen at a later time than originally planned or expected; to postpone
2. (n.) a period of time by which something is late or postponed

Pronunciations:

• US: dih-ley
• UK: dih-ley

Origin and Usage:

The word "delay" originated from the Middle English word "delayen" which meant "to retard" or "to hinder." The word has been in use since the 14th century. The verb form is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing to describe the act of postponing or making something happen later than originally planned. The noun form is used to describe a period of time by which something is late or postponed.

Synonyms:

• postpone
• procrastinate
• defer
• put off
• hold off

Related Words:

• hurry
• haste
• lolly
• pause
• wait

Example Sentences:

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
• He delayed making a decision until he had all the information.
• The delay in the delivery of the package was frustrating.