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.
has lingered
-
present perfectof linger (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
New work from astrophysicists at Michigan State University may help resolve a scientific question that has lingered for more than a century: where do galactic cosmic rays come from?
From Science Daily ● Nov. 26, 2025
“The Ed Gein Story” has lingered in the streamer’s list of top ten shows since its debut nearly a month ago, reflective of the robust marketplace for horror.
From Salon ● Oct. 29, 2025
Perhaps the Lyceum Speech has lingered outside the main Lincoln canon because it does not sound like the man Eric Foner, a historian, has called “Our Lincoln.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 7, 2025
The damning allegation United's players pick and choose their games has lingered for some considerable time, dating back to Jose Mourinho's time as manager at the club, which began in 2016.
From BBC ● May 11, 2025
But in the South it generated even more contempt for the national press, and that animosity has lingered beyond the Civil Rights Era.
From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson
