dawdle
UK[ˈdɔːdl]US[ˈdɑːdl]
v
to do something very slowly, especially in a way that wastes time
Etymology
the verb 'dawdle' first appeared in english in the late 17th century. its origins are obscure but it is likely related to, or a variant of, the dialectal word 'daddle', meaning 'to walk unsteadily' or 'to trifle'. another possible influence is the obsolete word 'daw', meaning a lazy person. the core concept of moving slowly or idling about connects these terms. the word's playful, reduplicative sound may have contributed to its formation and its enduring use to describe leisurely, inefficient action.
Analysis
the word 'dawdle' is a simplex word of uncertain origin, likely a blend or alteration of related dialectal terms. it functions as a single, indivisible unit in modern english.
Examples
stop dawdling and get ready, or we'll be late for school.
we dawdled over our coffee, enjoying the morning sun.
he dawdled on his way home, stopping to look in every shop window.