7+ Synonyms for Delay & Similar Words
Definition of delay
- noun
- time during which some action is awaited; "instant replay caused too long a delay"; "he ordered a hold in the action"
- the act of delaying; inactivity resulting in something being put off until a later time
- verb
- cause to be slowed down or delayed; "Traffic was delayed by the bad weather"; "she delayed the work that she didn't want to perform"
7 synonyms found
Writing tips for "delay"
Choosing the right synonym depends on context, tone, and audience. Words like detain, detention, hold can replace "delay" depending on the shade of meaning you need. In poetry and songwriting, swapping synonyms lets you match a rhyme scheme or meter without changing your meaning. In prose, varying your word choice avoids repetition and keeps readers engaged.
With 7 alternatives available, "delay" gives you flexibility across registers — from formal to casual, from literary to conversational. Try pairing these synonyms with our rhyme finder to discover words that both mean and sound like what you need.
"Delay" in song lyrics
See how delay is used in real songs:
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"Greg Nice is on the mic with no delay"
3rd Bass f/ Nice and Smooth — Microphone Techniques -
"DJ Daryl's with me with no delay"
415 — 41Fivin -
"with a 90 percent delay.. delay.."
Analog Brothers — Analog Technics
Frequently asked questions
- What are synonyms for delay?
- Synonyms for delay include: detain, detention, hold, postponement, stay, wait, holdup.
- How many synonyms does delay have?
- Delay has 7 synonyms.