delays

NOUN

deferment, interruption

Synonyms

STRONGEST

lag moratorium postponement problem setback stoppage suspension wait

STRONG

adjournment bind check cunctation dawdling demurral detention discontinuation downtime filibuster hindrance holding impediment interval jam lingering logjam loitering obstruction procrastination prorogation remission reprieve retardation showstopper stall stay stop surcease tarrying tie-up

WEAK

cooling-off period hangup hold-up holding pattern putting off retardment

Antonyms

STRONGEST

continuation

STRONG

advance aid assistance beginning go help liberation promotion support

WEAK

dispatch expedition furtherance hastening hurry rush speed

VERB

cause stop in action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adjourn bar block defer detain hamper hold impede keep obstruct postpone prevent prolong put off restrict shelve stall stay suspend withhold

STRONG

arrest check choke clog confine curb dawdle deter dilly-dally discourage drag encumber filibuster inhibit interfere intermit lag linger loiter procrastinate prorogue protract remand repress retard slacken table tarry temporize

WEAK

bide time gain time hold over keep back lay over stave off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abandon advance aid allow assist carry out continue do encourage expedite forward free further go help let go open permit promote release support

STRONG

complete finish hurry leave liberate push rush unblock

WEAK

dispatch hasten speed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Rail operators, including NJ Transit and Amtrak, have implemented heat-related speed restrictions as high temperatures affect tracks and overhead equipment, leading to delays during one of the year’s busiest travel periods.

From Salon • Jul. 3, 2026

"Such delays continue to have an impact on workforce morale," Freeman said.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2026

The company is also working on a new version of its Roadster sports car, though it’s unclear when that will be available for sale following almost a decade of delays.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 2, 2026

The plane will serve as a stopgap until Boeing delivers two new purpose-built Air Force Ones, which are expected to be delivered in two years after a series of delays and cost overruns.

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

The delays and damage angered Olmsted, but other matters distressed him even more.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson