Dragging

/ˈdræɡ.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of pulling or dragging something.
The dragging of the heavy load took all her strength.
a slow and tiring movement.
The dragging of time during the long wait felt unbearable.
verb
pulling along or behind with effort or difficulty.
She was dragging her suitcase across the airport floor.
to move or cause to move slowly or with difficulty.
The storm clouds were dragging across the sky.
to draw something behind, often with a sense of reluctance.
He was dragging his feet on the way to the office.

Etymology

From the Middle English 'draggen', meaning to draw or pull.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dragging one's feet
To procrastinate or delay action.
dragging someone down
To cause someone to suffer or fail.
dragging it out
To prolong a situation unnecessarily.
dragging along
To lead someone or something forward with effort.

Related Words

drag
The act of pulling something with effort.
hauling
To transport or carry something heavy.
tug
To pull something quickly and suddenly.

Slang Meanings

To criticize or mock someone, especially in public.
They were dragging him for his fashion choices.
To delay a response or reaction.
Stop dragging, just give me an answer already!