godan verb (-ku), intransitive verb
be slow; not make progress; be inefficient
Describes a person, action, or process that is sluggish, dawdling, or not proceeding smoothly. Often implies frustration with the lack of speed or efficiency. Related to the adverb もたもた.
See also: もたもた
彼は仕事がもたついていて、なかなか終わらない。
He is slow at his work and just can't seem to finish.
会議がもたついて、予定が遅れてしまった。
The meeting dragged on and we fell behind schedule.