lingering (B1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈlɪŋɡərɪŋ/

Definition

Continuing to exist or persist, especially for longer than expected or desired.

Examples

• A lingering doubt about the project's success remained.

• The scent of her perfume was lingering in the room.

• He had a lingering cough after his illness.

How to Use lingering

linger on (phrasal verb)

To remain in a place longer than necessary or expected. — "He lingered on the phone, wanting to talk more."

linger over (prepositional phrase)

To spend a long time doing something or thinking about something. — "She tended to linger over her breakfast on weekends."

Synonyms of lingering

Words with a similar meaning to lingering:

• lasting
• persistent
• enduring
• protracted

Antonyms of lingering

Words with the opposite meaning to lingering:

• fleeting
• transient

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary