lin·ger
[ling-ger]
verb (used without object)
1. to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave: We lingered awhile after the party.
1. to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave: We lingered awhile after the party.
2. to remain alive; continue or persist, although gradually dying, ceasing, disappearing, etc.: She lingered a few months after the heart attack. Such practices still linger among the older natives.
3. to dwell in contemplation, thought, or enjoyment: to linger over the beauty of a painting.
4. to be tardy in action; delay; dawdle: to linger in discharging one’s duties.
5. to walk slowly; saunter along.
verb (used with object)
6. to pass (time, life, etc.) in a leisurely or a tedious manner (usually followed by away or out ): We lingered away the whole summer at the beach.
6. to pass (time, life, etc.) in a leisurely or a tedious manner (usually followed by away or out ): We lingered away the whole summer at the beach.
7. Archaic . to draw out or protract.