Loitering: meaning, definitions and examples

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loitering

 

[ ˈlɔɪtərɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

hanging around

Loitering refers to the act of remaining in a particular public place for a prolonged time without any apparent purpose. It is often viewed negatively, as it may suggest suspicious intentions or a nuisance to the community. Laws against loitering are common in many areas to deter potential criminal activity.

Synonyms

dawdle, hover, linger, wait around

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of loitering outside the store.
  • Loitering in front of the library is not allowed.
  • The police patrol the area to prevent loitering around the park.

Translations

Translations of the word "loitering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perambulação

🇮🇳 गुमना

🇩🇪 Herumlungern

🇮🇩 berkeliaran

🇺🇦 блукання

🇵🇱 kręcenie się

🇯🇵 徘徊する

🇫🇷 flânerie

🇪🇸 merodeo

🇹🇷 dolaşmak

🇰🇷 배회하다

🇸🇦 التسكع

🇨🇿 potulování

🇸🇰 potulovanie

🇨🇳 闲逛

🇸🇮 tavšanje

🇮🇸 lummufar

🇰🇿 сандал

🇬🇪 ბოდიალი

🇦🇿 qeyri-şəffaflıq

🇲🇽 vagar

Word origin

The word 'loitering' comes from the Middle English term 'loiteren', which means 'to stand about or to delay'. This word is believed to be derived from the Dutch word 'luieren', meaning 'to idle or lounge'. The concept developed further with influences from the French word 'loiter', which had a similar connotation. Over the centuries, loitering transitioned in meaning to become associated with lingering without a clear purpose, often in a public setting. In many jurisdictions, loitering is criminalized due to its association with petty crime and other social issues, and laws were established to regulate and penalize those who loiter in certain areas. Today, loitering is often considered a nuisance and can lead to police intervention, resulting in a legal discourse surrounding personal freedom, public order, and community safety.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,299, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.