DELAY - Definition & Meaning for Kids
Meaning 1
Part of speech: Verb
cause to be slowed down or delayed
Example: Traffic was delayed by the bad weather; she delayed the work that she didn't want to perform
Categories: Decelerate, Slow, Slow down, Slow up,
Meaning 2
Part of speech: Verb
act later than planned, scheduled, or required
Example: Don't delay your application to graduate school or else it won't be considered
Categories: Wait, Hold off, Hold back
Synonyms
, Delay, Time lag, Detain, Check
Antonyms
🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)
The word "delay" comes from Old French delaiier. It started in Middle English delaien. Then it appeared in Frankish *laibijan. Later, people used it in Frankish *lattjan. After that, it was Old French laier. Over time, it became Anglo-Norman delaier. Finally, it reached Middle English delaien. Many other languages have similar words:.
- Old French: deslaier
- Old English: latian
- Old English: latu
- Old English: lǣfan
🧩 Fun Fact
Following this word's journey reveals ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges.