Lingering
ˈlɪŋɡərɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsTo stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of reluctance to leave or a pleasant sensation.
ˈlɪŋɡər
To remain or stay in a place longer than expected or desired.
The smell of freshly baked bread lingered in the kitchen.
💡 Simply: Think about when you're having so much fun, you don't want to go home. You might linger at the playground, like staying just a little longer.
👶 For kids: When you stay somewhere for a little bit longer than you need to.
More Examples
She lingered in the doorway, hoping for an invitation to join the conversation.
The problems of the past continue to linger in our minds.
How It's Used
"He lingered at the party, chatting with friends."
"The scent of her perfume lingered in the air long after she left."
Continuing for a long time or slow to end.
ˈlɪŋɡərɪŋ
Lasting for a long time or slow to end.
He had a lingering cough after his cold.
💡 Simply: When something stays with you for a long time, like a catchy song that won't get out of your head, that's lingering.
👶 For kids: When something lasts for a while.
More Examples
The effects of the economic downturn had a lingering impact.
The taste of the exotic dish left a lingering impression on her palate.
How It's Used
"The patient reported lingering pain after the surgery."
"She had a lingering sense of sadness after the loss."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
lingering doubts
Unresolved uncertainties or questions that persist in one's mind.
"Despite the assurances, she still harbored lingering doubts about the project's success."
lingering kiss
A kiss that is drawn out and intimate.
"They shared a lingering kiss before parting ways."
lingering fragrance/scent
A scent or fragrance that remains noticeable for a while.
"The bakery's delicious aroma created a lingering fragrance that filled the air."
From Middle English *lingren*, likely from Old English *lange* (long) + *-iering* (a suffix forming a present participle). Originally referred to being slow or delayed, then evolving to its current sense of staying or remaining.
The word 'linger' has been used since the late 14th century, initially to describe delaying or moving slowly. Its meaning evolved over time to include the sense of remaining or staying.
Memory tip
Imagine you're at your favorite coffee shop, savoring the last sip of your latte. You don't want to leave, so you linger.