Hover Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ–ฑ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

hover

[หˆhสŒvษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

on a webpage

To hover means to position the cursor over a specific area on a webpage without clicking. This action often triggers a response, such as a dropdown menu or additional information.

Synonyms

dwell, float, linger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
hover

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.
float

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

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 cafรฉ, enjoying her coffee.
  • The smell of the flowers lingered in the room long after they were gone.
dwell

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.

Examples of usage

  • The user can hover over the image to see a larger version.
  • When you hover over the link, a preview of the destination website appears.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Hovering often involves creating lift through the flapping of wings, as seen in insects and birds.
  • Certain drones and vehicles use rotating blades to maintain a steady hover, utilizing principles of aerodynamics.
  • In physics, hovering requires a balance between gravitational force and lift generated by propulsion.

Pop Culture

  • Hoverboards, popular tech toys, give the illusion of floating while users glide over surfaces.
  • In video games, many characters have the ability to hover, representing power and agility.
  • The film 'Back to the Future Part II' featured futuristic vehicles that hovered above the ground, inspiring real-life tech.

Psychology

  • The concept of hovering can also refer to a mental state where someone is not fully engaged, often seen in procrastination.
  • Hovering over a task can lead to anxiety, as it creates pressure without productivity.
  • In social psychology, hovering can describe someone's tendency to linger in the background of social situations, often to observe.

Technology

  • Hover technology is essential in robotics, enabling machines to perform complex tasks while staying stable.
  • Many user interfaces use 'hover' actions to provide additional information or controls when a cursor is placed over an icon.
  • Research into hover technology continues to advance with innovations in magnetic levitation and air cushion systems.

Origin of 'hover'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'hoveren', which means to 'dangle' or 'linger'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Old English 'hufian', meaning 'to hover over'.
  • The modern usage began in the 14th century, mostly used to describe birds and flying.

The word 'hover' originated in the late Middle English period from the Old English word 'hลfer', which meant 'hovering or tarrying in suspense'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in the context of cursor movement on a computer screen.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,577, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.