The phrase "put off" means to delay or postpone something. When someone puts off a task or an event, they decide to do it later instead of doing it right away. This can be done for various reasons, such as feeling unprepared, not wanting to do it, or simply needing more time.
The phrase "put off" combines the verb "put," which comes from Old English "puttan," meaning to place or set down, and "off," which has roots in Old English "of," meaning away or from. Together, they create the meaning of setting something aside or away for later.