lollygag

Definition

To dawdle; to be lazy or idle; to avoid necessary work or effort.

Etymology

By surface analysis, lolly (“fool, tongue”) + gag (“fool around”). Compare lollypoop. Cited in American dialects from 1871 and attested since at least 1859.

Example Sentences

• "Stop lollygagging! […] He ate ALL the ship's food! 'Zat your friend? Show him outta here!"
• "Now this plaintiff thinks how poor he hereafter will have to live, for the sake of old Green's having a fine fat woman to lollygag with."
• "Lovemaking and lollygagging are hereby strictly forbidden. […] The holding of hands, osculation and constant embracing of WAVES, corpsmen or civilians and sailors or any combination of male and female personnel is a violation of naval discipline. […]"