dilatory
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dilatory
- /ˈdɪlət(ə)ɹi/ UK
- /daɪˈleɪt(ə)ɹi/ rare
- /ˈdɪləˌtɔɹi/ US
Where it comes from
From Middle English dilatorie, from Old French dilatoire, from Latin dīlātōrius (“extending or putting off (time)”), from dīlātor, from differō. Not etymologically related to delay.
adjective
- Intentionally delaying (someone or something), intended to cause delay, gain time, or adjourn decision. a dilatory strategy
- Slow or tardy.
adjective
- Relating to dilation; dilative.
