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Definition of linger

linger

/ˈlɪŋ.ɡɚ/
lin · ger
Adverb:lingeringly
•
Adjective:lingering
•
Past Simple:lingered
•
Past Participle:lingered
•
Present Participle:lingering
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linger Lexical Profile

linger Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of a reluctance to leave.

Example

"The guests continued to linger in the lobby long after the concert had ended."

2

To be slow to disappear or fade away (especially of a feeling, smell, or illness).

Example

"The rich aroma of roasted coffee beans lingered in the kitchen all morning."

3

To spend a long time over something, such as a meal, thought, or detail.

Example

"They decided to linger over their dessert and discuss their upcoming travel plans."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for linger
Antonyms
View all antonyms for linger

• Rhymes for linger

• Nearby Words

lineup
ling
lingcod
linger
lingerer
lingerie
lingering

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English lengeren ('to dwell, remain'), a frequentative form of lengen ('to prolong, delay'), from Old English lengan, which shares a Proto-Germanic root with the word 'long'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Linger. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/linger
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