Find Synonyms
tarry Synonyms
Another word for tarry
Choosing another word for tarry depends on context, so the 18 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To stay longer than intended; to delay leaving a place.
Usage Example
"We must not linger in the valley if we hope to reach the mountain pass before nightfall."
Strongest
linger
Strong
loiter
dawdle
dally
delay
stall
hang back
procrastinate
• adjective (Context 2)
Of, resembling, or covered with tar.
Usage Example
"The fishermen worked along the dock with pitchy ropes that smelled strongly of pine pitch."
Strong
pitchy
bituminous
Weak
resinous
• verb (Context 3)
To wait or remain temporarily in a place or state (often archaic or literary).
Usage Example
"The messengers were instructed to wait at the city gates until the council reached a verdict."
Strongest
wait
Strong
remain
bide
stay
abide
sojourn
• noun (Context 4)
A temporary stay, sojourn, or delay.
Usage Example
"After a brief sojourn at the country inn, the travelers resumed their journey northward."
Strong
sojourn
stay
stopover
delay
Opposites of tarry
The opposite of tarry shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
hurry
hasten
rush
depart
proceed
leave
departure
advance
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Tarry. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/tarry