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Meaning of lingering
The primary meaning of the word "lingering" is to remain or stay in a place or situation for a longer period than expected or desired.
Etymology of lingering
The word "lingering" has its roots in the Old English word "lengian", which means to lengthen or prolong.
It is also related to the Old Norse word "lengja", which means to make longer.
The word "lingering" has been in use since the 15th century, initially meaning to lengthen or prolong something, and later developing its modern meaning of remaining or staying in a place or situation for a longer period than expected.
Synonyms
prolonged
persistent
lasting
enduring
continuous
unabating
relentless
unrelenting
lingering
residual
remaining
staying
staying on
staying behind
dragging on
drawn out
protracted
extended
lengthy
long-lasting
long-drawn-out
dilatory
tardy
slow
sluggish
plodding
creeping
crawling
dawdling
loitering
tarrying
delaying
hesitating
faltering
wavering
vacillating
oscillating
fluctuating
hanging on
holding on
clinging on
persisting
persevering
continuing
staying
remaining
abiding
surviving
staying put
sticking around
hanging around
waiting
tarrying
lingering on
staying on
staying behind
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "lingering" as remaining or staying in a place or situation for a longer period than expected or desired, or continuing to exist or be felt for a longer period than expected.
- It can also refer to something that is slow to disappear or fade away, such as a lingering smell or a lingering impression.
Usage Examples
- The smell of smoke was lingering in the air long after the fire had been extinguished.
- She had a lingering feeling of sadness after the break-up.
- The lingering effects of the illness made it difficult for him to recover.