delay

Definition

  • noun: a situation in which something happens later than it should
  • noun: the act of 'delaying'
  • verb: to wait until later to do something
  • verb: to stop, detain, or hinder for a time
  • often used as '(be) delayed'
  • synonyms: put off, procrastination, stop

Examples

  • He had a very 'delayed' reaction to the medication. [=a reaction that did not happen immediately]

  • The nurse apologized for the 'delay' [='wait'] and said that the doctor would be in shortly.

  • Production problems 'delayed' the introduction of the new model by several months.

Movie quotes

  • (..) She'll give us a son. Take her now. I will not take her until we are properly wed! For once, I will have something pure! 'Tis madness to delay. Marry them... ...or face me! Where is she? The lady Marian? Up the stairs, that way! (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves