ALL meanings of delaying action
de·lay ac·tion
D d - noun delaying action a measure or measures taken to gain time, as when weaker military forces harass the advance of a superior enemy without coming to a pitched battle 3
- noun delaying action maneuvers to cover a retreat, gain time, etc. 3
- noun delaying action a maneuver in which a defensive force delays the advance of a superior enemy force by withdrawing while inflicting the maximum destruction possible without engaging in decisive combat. 1