SHILLYSHALLIES

SHILLYSHALLY

Shill"-I-shall`-I, Shil"ly-shal`ly, adv. Etym: [A reduplication of shall I.]

Definition: In an irresolute, undecided, or hesitating manner. I am somewhat dainty in making a resolution, because when I make it, I keep it; I don't stand shill-I-shall-I then; if I say 't, I'll do 't. Congreve.

Shil"ly-shal`ly, v. i.

Definition: To hesitate; to act in an irresolute manner; hence, to occupy one's self with trifles.

Shil"ly-shal`ly, n.

Definition: Irresolution; hesitation; also, occupation with trifles. She lost not one of her forty-five minutes in picking and choosing, - - no shilly-shally in Kate. De Quincey.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

16 June 2025

WINEBERRY

(noun) raspberry of China and Japan having pale pink flowers grown for ornament and for the small red acid fruits


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Coffee Trivia

In the 18th century, the Swedish government made coffee and its paraphernalia (including cups and dishes) illegal for its supposed ties to rebellious sentiment.

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