What does palavering mean?
Palavering means talking at length, particularly when the conversation appears trivial, repetitive, or unlikely to lead to a useful result. The word is commonly used as a verb in commands and rebukes, such as “stop palavering and make a decision,” but it can also function as a noun for prolonged chatter or discussion. Its tone is informal and often mildly impatient or dismissive: describing someone's remarks as palavering suggests that they are avoiding decisive action rather than contributing meaningfully to a conversation. The word is especially common in British English, though it is also understood in American English. Although it can refer neutrally to talk in general, it more commonly carries the implication that the talk is wasting time. Its unusual history adds interest: the word entered English through Portuguese, whose basic term for “word” also underlies several related words in European languages.
Prolonged talking or discussion, especially when it is trivial, repetitive, or inconclusive.
"There was too much palavering and no clear decision."
Informal and often mildly disparaging; usually uncountable, though the plural palaverings is possible but rare.
To talk at length, especially about matters of little importance or without reaching a decision.
"They palavered for hours without agreeing on anything."
Usually intransitive and informal; the present participle commonly appears in commands such as “stop palavering.”
Rare and generally unnecessary; the singular form is normally used in both countable and uncountable contexts.
"The committee's palaverings delayed the final vote."
Palavering comes from a Portuguese word meaning “word” and has evolved into a disparaging label for talk that seems to go on forever.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of palavering
The word was borrowed into English from Portuguese palavra, meaning “word” or “talk,” during the early nineteenth century. Portuguese palavra derives from Latin parabola, a development related to Ancient Greek parabolē, meaning “comparison” and “speech.” English usage developed from the general sense of talk or conversation toward the more critical modern sense of prolonged, ineffectual chatter.
Related word forms
How palavering is actually used
Informal and sometimes mildly disparaging. It is especially associated with British English and is often used to suggest that people are avoiding a decision or making little progress.
Easily confused with palavering
A parley is a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement, whereas palavering usually suggests prolonged talk that may remain trivial or unproductive.