# dilatory

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈdɪlət(ə)ɹi/

## Definitions
1. Intentionally delaying (someone or something), intended to cause delay, gain time, or adjourn decision.
2. Slow or tardy.

## Etymology
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.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/dilatory