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

  • (..) they should retain the white card, as this must be surrendered to Lugash authorities before departure. The loss of this card may cause considerable delays. Have my bags sent up to my room like a good fellow. How are you, Pepi? Ah, what a surprise. Sir Charles Litton, (..)
    1975 The Return of the Pink Panther