Linger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⏳
Add to dictionary
linger
[ˈlɪŋɡər ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Verb
intransitive
Stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of a reluctance to leave.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He lingered in the hallway, not quite ready to enter the room.
- She lingered at the edge of the party, feeling out of place.
- Don't linger too long at the restaurant, we have a movie to catch.
- The scent of her perfume lingered in the air long after she had left.
- The memories of their time together lingered in his mind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Lingering thoughts can be linked to emotional processing; people often revisit memories to make sense of feelings.
- Research shows that lingering in positive experiences can enhance happiness and satisfaction.
- On the other hand, lingering on negative experiences can lead to rumination, which may affect mental well-being.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, lingering during meals is considered a sign of hospitality and enjoying company.
- The concept of lingering is celebrated in various art forms such as painting and poetry, often representing time and memory.
- Certain festivals or rituals encourage participants to linger, creating a moment of shared experience and reflection.
Literature
- In classic literature, characters often linger in their thoughts, reflecting deep internal conflicts or emotions.
- Poets frequently use the act of lingering to convey themes of love, loss, or nostalgia.
- Many novels employ a lingering moment to foreshadow future events, creating suspense and emotional depth.
Everyday Life
- People often linger in places like cafes or parks to enjoy the atmosphere, reflecting a desire to savor experiences.
- Lingering can serve as a way to build relationships, as spending extra time with someone can strengthen bonds.
- In time management, it's essential to avoid unnecessary lingering on tasks to improve productivity.
Origin of 'linger'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'lingeren', which means to delay or to hang around.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'linger', which meant to dwell or remain.
- In various dialects, it often connotes a sense of nostalgic or emotional attachment to a place or moment.
The word 'linger' originated from the Middle English word 'lengeren', which meant to dwell or delay. It has roots in the Old English word 'lengan', meaning to prolong or extend. Over time, the meaning of 'linger' has evolved to represent staying in a place longer than necessary, often due to reluctance or a slow disappearance. The word has been used in various literary works to convey the sense of hesitation or prolongation.