delay
de-lay · verb
Definitions
verb
- 1.
To make something happen or arrive later than expected or desired.
- 2.
To postpone action; to be slow to act.
- 3.
A period of time by which something is late or postponed.
- 4.
The action of delaying or being delayed.
Related words
Etymology
From Old French delaier (to leave, abandon, or defer), possibly from de- (away) + laier (to leave), or from des- + a word related to laxare (to loosen). The word entered English in the 13th century.