linger
verb (used without object)
to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave.
lingered
-
past participleof linger.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof linger.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
lingerverb (used without object)to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But the chemicals take a long time to break down and have lingered in the environment, particularly in landfill, where they can leach into waterways and then into the sea.
From BBC ● Aug. 10, 2026
Despite admitting that he’d like to be asked back to the band, bad blood lingered.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 7, 2026
One moment from Bottura’s episode has lingered most.
From Salon ● Aug. 6, 2026
For most of these drinks, the artificial flavors lingered in my mouth after I’d drained the can.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 4, 2026
Blinking the snow from my eyes, I scanned the faces of those who lingered, searching for two children among the diminishing crowd.
From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros
