loiter
verb (used without object)
to linger aimlessly or as if aimless in or about a place.
loitered
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past participleof loiter.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof loiter.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
loiterverb (used without object)to linger aimlessly or as if aimless in or about a place.
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.
In the days, weeks and months leading up to the release of “Michael,” the one question that loitered at the top of my mind was why Jackson’s estate wasn’t content to leave well enough alone.
From Salon ● Apr. 25, 2026
He loitered in the streets with his friends and called them “my pippin.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 15, 2026
Grindset impresario and assiduous podcast guest Scott Galloway loitered by the back bar.
From Slate ● Aug. 21, 2024
They loitered around in the dirt driveway, evidently hoping she’d change her mind.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 20, 2023
Although I knew it was risky, I loitered as close to the gates as possible, waiting for a moment when I might be able to dart through them.
From "The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson
