pootle along
C1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To go somewhere slowly without hurrying, and feeling perfectly happy about it.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To travel or move slowly and without urgency, often in a vehicle, enjoying the journey.
"We spent Sunday pootling along country lanes in the old campervan."
Grammar: inseparable
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
To go about one's daily activities in a slow, unhurried, and contented way.
"He was happy to pootle along without any great ambition or urgency."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Distinctly British informal English, rarely used in American English. Often describes driving or cycling at a leisurely pace. Has a warm, slightly humorous tone. Suggests the speaker is relaxed and not in a hurry.
Commonly used with
countryside village road canal lane afternoon
Forms
Base
pootle along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pootles along
he/she/it
Past simple
pootled along
yesterday
Past participle
pootled along
have + pp
-ing form
pootling along
continuous
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