Hover: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'hover' to describe an object or being that remains in the air in one place, without moving significantly. It is often used with technology, like drones, or to show someone waiting nearby.

• The drone can hover above the ground for several minutes.
• She hovered nervously near the door, waiting for her turn.

Use 'float' to describe something that is buoyant or drifting in the air or on a liquid surface. It removes any idea of stability and suggests gentle movement or suspension.

• The leaves floated on the surface of the pond.
• The balloon floated up into the sky.

Linger typically means to stay in a place longer than necessary because of reluctance to leave. It can have a negative connotation if it implies dawdling or unnecessary delay.

• She lingered at the café, enjoying her coffee.
• The smell of the flowers lingered in the room long after they were gone.

Use 'dwell' to describe someone who lives in a place or thinking about something for a long time. It has a more focused and sometimes contemplative connotation.

• He dwells in a small cottage by the lake.
• Try not to dwell on the past and focus on the future.