Lollygaggin’
In Appalachian and Southern talk, "lollygaggin’" (sometimes written "lollygagging") means dawdling, wasting time, or goofing off instead of working. It’s playful, but usually said with a hint of scolding.
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If I ask one of the kids to do something, chances are I'll catch 'em 'lollygaggin'' at some point. And I'll call 'em out using that word. If I ask one of the kids to do something, chances are I'll catch 'em 'lollygaggin'' at some point. And I'll call 'em out using that word. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Dawdling, wasting time (verb)
Y’all been lollygaggin’ all morning.We was just takin’ it slow.- Goofing off, not being serious (verb)
Quit lollygaggin’ and help stack that wood.Alright, alright - I’m on it.Origin and Etymology
First recorded in American English in the mid-1800s, "lollygag" meant to dawdle or fool around. Its exact origin is uncertain, but the word quickly spread through Southern and Appalachian speech as a scolding term.
Usage Notes
You’ll hear "lollygaggin’" from parents, grandparents, and bosses - anyone in charge of folks dragging their feet. Still common today, often used half serious, half joking.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it lively: "LAH-lee-gag-in." The last "g" drops away, and it comes out quick, like a word meant to snap somebody back into action.