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.
were lingering
-
past progressiveof linger.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Composed as she was, there were lingering terrors.
From BBC ● Dec. 29, 2025
“Adding to the negative backdrop for crypto were lingering questions over the crypto market structure bill that’s being worked on in Congress,” Deutsche Bank analysts say in a note.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 21, 2025
Other pockets of pollution were lingering farther west, over Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit, Pittsburgh and regions in between, government data showed.
From New York Times ● Jun. 8, 2023
The three families were lingering inside the accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, located behind Alina and Daniel Villagra’s newly built home in the Los Angeles area.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 29, 2023
It could not be said that the gentlemen were lingering over their wine.
From Sir Tom by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant
