Definition: A time sink is an activity that absorbs time. There is a negative connotation to the term. It is not an activity that takes time, but accomplishes something. Rather a time sink is an activity that takes a lot more time than it is worth, if it accomplishes anything at all. Engaging in an activity that is a time sink is the same as wasting time. It may be an activity that has to be done, for example filling out paperwork required by regulations, when you know it won't make a difference and you could be spending the time doing something productive.
Also Known As: waste of time
Examples:
Worrying about this latest rumor about layoffs is a real time sink. We can't do anything about it and HR will tell us when they're ready.
