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

  • (..) Until he recovers, I am powerless. - What if he dies? - Then... ...as you Americans say, all bets are off. Gentlemen, please. This is a brief delay. Nothing more. Your Excellency, gentlemen... I advise you to join us in our prayers for the Holy Father's recovery. We had an agreement! (..)
    1990 The Godfather Part III