Linger

To remain in a place longer than necessary, often due to an emotional connection, attachment, or reluctance to leave; to delay or dawdle; to persist in thinking or feeling about something. The term often implies a sense of nostalgia or yearning, as one might linger in a moment, memory, or even in a physical location.

Linger meaning with examples

• After the wedding ceremony, guests began to linger around the reception area, enjoying the laughter and joy that filled the air. The music played softly in the background, drawing people to the dance floor, while others conversed excitedly about shared memories and future plans. The couple noticed how their loved ones held onto this special day, creating lasting memories even as the sun began to set.
• On a rainy afternoon, Emily would often linger at the coffee shop, staring out the window and losing herself in thought. She appreciated the cozy atmosphere and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. As she watched pedestrians hurry by with umbrellas, she couldn't help but feel a connection to their stories, wishing for a moment that she could share a cup of warmth and solace with each passerby.
• In the quiet museum gallery, the painting seemed to speak to Sarah in a way that made her want to linger indefinitely. She was captivated by the brushstrokes and colours, feeling an overwhelming sense of peace wash over her. The bustling crowds outside faded away as she lost herself in the art, wishing she could experience such beauty without the pressure of time urging her to move on.
• After finishing the last page of a captivating novel, Jake chose to linger in his favourite reading nook, letting the story wash over him. He relished the characters and their struggles, reflecting on the themes of love and loss that resonated so deeply. Time slipped away as he replayed key moments in his mind, wishing he could hold onto the experience just a little bit longer before returning to reality.