Dawdler

A Dawdler is a person who wastes time or moves slowly, often delaying progress or completing tasks. This term implies a tendency to procrastinate and can refer to someone who is leisurely in their actions, possibly due to distraction or lack of motivation. While some may dawdle intentionally to savor moments or enjoy leisurely activities, it can also indicate an inability to focus, prioritize, or meet deadlines effectively.

Dawdler meaning with examples

• In a busy office, the new intern quickly earned a reputation as a dawdler. While his colleagues rushed to meet deadlines, he often lingered at the coffee machine, catching up on gossip or scrolling through social media. This behavior frustrated his boss, who expected each team member to contribute in a timely manner to meet project goals without unnecessary delays.
• During the hiking trip, John became known as the Dawdler of the group. While others pushed forward to reach the summit, he stopped frequently to take pictures of flowers, check his gear, and admire the scenery. Although his laid-back approach provided opportunities for everyone to enjoy the environment, it often caused the group to lag behind schedule and miss the planned picnic at the top.
• As a teacher, Ms. Linda often encountered dawdlers in her classroom. One student, in particular, would take his time organizing his desk, doodling in his notebook instead of completing assignments. While Ms. Linda appreciated his creativity, she found it increasingly challenging to engage him in lessons. After several reminders, she decided to implement time management strategies to help him stay focused and complete his tasks efficiently.
• As the deadline for the project approached, Sarah realized she had been a Dawdler throughout the semester. Instead of working steadily, she had procrastinated, choosing to binge-watch her favorite shows rather than tackle her assignments. With only days left, she scrambled to catch up and decided to implement a more disciplined schedule, vowing to minimize distractions and prioritize her responsibilities.