Linger

usgb/ˈlɪŋɡər/
verb

To stay in a place longer than necessary, often out of reluctance to leave.

After the movie ended, they lingered in the theater, discussing the plot.
Visual representation of "linger" - To stay in a place longer than necessary, often out of reluctance to leave

Often appears as...

  • linger in mind
  • linger in thoughts
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "linger"
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Emotional Attachment

It often implies emotional reasons behind the reluctance to leave.

Illustration for Emotional Attachment
She lingered at her childhood home, flooded with nostalgia.
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Subtle Exit

Used when someone leaves slowly and quietly to avoid drawing attention.

Illustration for Subtle Exit
He lingered at the party's edge, then slipped away unnoticed.
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Negative Connotation

Can suggest inconvenience or annoyance in certain contexts.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Guests lingered long after the event, inconveniencing the hosts.
Visual representation of the word "Linger"

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