Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mark-time

verb

/mɑrk taɪm/

Definition

To stand still and simulate movement, particularly in a way that is organized or purposeful.

Examples

During the ceremony, the soldiers were ordered to mark-time as part of their drill.
She felt like she was just marking time at her job instead of advancing her career.
We need to stop marking time and start making real progress on this project.

Meaning

Mark-time often refers to a marching command that instructs soldiers to remain in place while simulating the act of marching. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone is doing nothing productive, just maintaining their current position without progressing.