buy time

phrase

: to delay an imminent action or decision : stall

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of buy time was in 1832

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Buy time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buy%20time. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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