First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
linger
verb lin·ger \ˈliŋ-gər\
: to stay somewhere beyond the usual or expected time
: to continue to exist as time passes
: to remain alive while becoming weaker
lin·geredlin·ger·ing \-g(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of LINGER
intransitive verb
1
: to be slow in parting or in quitting something : tarry <fans lingered outside the door>
2
a : to remain alive although gradually dying b : to remain existent although often waning in strength, importance, or influence <lingering doubts> <lingering odors>
3
: to be slow to act : procrastinate
4
: to move slowly : saunter
transitive verb
1
obsolete : delay
2
: to pass (as a period of time) slowly
— lin·ger·er \-gər-ər\ noun
— lin·ger·ing·ly \-g(ə-)riŋ-lē\ adverb
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Origin of LINGER
Middle English (northern dialect) lengeren to dwell, frequentative of lengen to prolong, from Old English lengan; akin to Old English lang long
Related to LINGER
Rhymes with LINGER
LINGERER Defined for Kids
linger
verb lin·ger \ˈliŋ-gər\
lin·geredlin·ger·ing
Definition of LINGER for Kids
1
: to be slow in leaving : delay <We lingered at the park.>
2
: to continue to exist as time passes <A faint smell of fried fish lingered about the place … — J. K. Rowling, Chamber of Secrets>
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