Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanism that automatically delays the release of a camera shutter for a fixed period of time so that the photographer can appear in the picture: This is the primary technical meaning, referring to a timer function on a camera.
   • An effect or process that occurs after a period of time: A more general meaning describing any action, result, or mechanism that is intentionally set to happen later.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • He set the delayed action on his camera so he could run and join the group photo. (He used the timer function to be in the picture.)
  • The bomb was equipped with a delayed action fuse. (The bomb's explosion was set to occur after a specific time.)
  • The policy changes will have a delayed action on the economy, with effects felt next year. (The consequences of the policy will manifest after some time.)

Advanced Usage

• "Delayed-action mechanism": A specific term for a device designed to initiate a process after a preset delay.
  • The sprinkler system uses a delayed-action mechanism to conserve water.
• Used attributively (as an adjective) before nouns like "effect", "response", or "release".
  • The medicine has a delayed-action formula.
  • We are studying the delayed-action response of the ecosystem to climate change.

Variants and Related Words

• Delay (n/v): The act of postponing or the period of time by which something is late.
  • The flight experienced a long delay.
• Timer (n): A device that measures or signals the end of a time interval; often synonymous in the camera context.
  • Use the timer for a hands-free photo.
• Time-release (adj): Often used for substances (like medication) that work over a period of time.
  • He takes a time-release capsule.

Synonyms

• Timer (in the context of photography).
• Time delay.
• Deferred effect.

Related Phrases

• Delayed reaction: A response that comes after a noticeable pause, often emotional or physical.
  • She had a delayed reaction to the bad news, breaking down hours later.
• Set the timer: The action of activating a delayed-action mechanism.
  • Don't forget to set the timer before you run into the shot.

Related Idioms

• A ticking time bomb: This idiom describes a situation with the potential for a sudden, disastrous outcome after a period of time, conceptually related to a delayed action.
  • Their unresolved conflict is a ticking time bomb for the team.

Noun

1. a mechanism that automatically delays the release of a camera shutter for a fixed period of time so that the photographer can appear in the picture