linger
/ˈlɪŋɡər/to stay in a place longer than necessary, often because of reluctance or hesitation
He lingered at the party, hoping to see her again.
He stayed at the party longer than usual because he wanted to see her.
The smell of coffee lingered in the air.
The coffee smell remained in the air for a while.
Often used to describe a lingering presence, memory, or effect.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'linger' to describe staying somewhere longer than usual or something remaining noticeable.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
Ensure the context makes it clear whether 'linger' refers to a person staying or something remaining.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English *lingeren*, possibly from Old Norse *lingra* (to linger), or from Old English *langian* (to be long, delay).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (staying in a place) and figuratively (a lingering smell, memory, or effect).