Is Shilly-Shally a Saying?

What's the origin of the phrase 'Shilly-shally'?
The meaning is really just the same as 'shall I, shall I not?' The phrase was originally to go shill-I shall-I or, to stand at shill-I shall-I.

Who said shilly shally?

Thomas Jefferson uses the phrase adjectivally in this 1792 quotation from his writings: “I had heard him say that this constitution was a shilly-shally thing, of mere milk and water, which would not last.”

What does shilly mean?

: to show hesitation or lack of decisiveness or resolution.

David Miller

David Miller

Executive Financial & Market Analyst

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.