WordGarden.iololl
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɒl/
US
- /ˈlɑl/
Meanings
Verb
to sit, lie, or stand in a relaxed loose way
to hang out loosely or droop
Beyond the definition
To loll is to relax in a lazy, comfortable way, like sprawling on a couch or leaning back with your arms hanging loose. It suggests an easy, unhurried posture, as if someone is resting in a hammock on a warm afternoon. The word can also describe something that hangs or droops loosely; a dog's tongue may hang out in the heat, or a tired traveler's head may fall to one side.
The word "loll" brings to mind a loose, relaxed kind of rest. It describes more than simply sitting or lying down. It suggests letting your body sink into an easy position, often with no hurry or effort at all. You might say that someone lolled on the grass watching clouds drift by, or that he lolled back in his chair in the afternoon sun.
The word also describes something hanging or drooping in a loose, unsupported way. In this sense, it is often used for parts of the body. A sleepy child's head may loll forward in a car seat, and a panting dog's tongue may loll out of its mouth. This use can suggest simple tiredness, deep relaxation, or weakness, depending on the situation.
Most often, "loll" appears in writing that wants to create a vivid picture of posture and mood. It can sound peaceful, lazy, playful, or slightly careless, depending on the scene. Whether a person is lolled across a sofa, a head is lolling with sleep, or a tongue is hanging out after a run, the word gives a clear sense of looseness and ease.
Examples
- 1
Tired posture
She lolled in the armchair, too tired to move.
- 2
Lazy day
We spent Sunday lolling around the house and watching old films.
- Phraseloll around
relax and do very little
- 3
Tongue position
The dog came running back with its tongue lolling out.
- 4
Sleepy movement
His head lolled to one side as he fell asleep on the train.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- lollverb
Forms
- lolling-ing formverb
- lolledpast tenseverb
- lollsverb