foot-dragging

noun

foot-drag·​ging ˈfu̇t-ˌdra-giŋ How to pronounce foot-dragging (audio)
Synonyms of foot-draggingnext
: failure to act with the necessary promptness or vigor

Examples of foot-dragging in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There is a famed story about Campos, eyeing the boys foot-dragging, taking them out back and teaching them how to march. Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 17 Jan. 2026 While progress has been made, the bloc is still impeded by both energy needs and foot-dragging member states. Dominique Soguel, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Nov. 2025 One reason for the foot-dragging is that the power with Japan’s patriarchy is strong. William Pesek, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foot-dragging was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Foot-dragging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foot-dragging. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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