<p><strong>verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object) to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave: We lingered awhile after the party.</li><li>Synonyms: loiter, tarry</li><li>to remain alive; continue or persist, although gradually dying, ceasing, disappearing, etc.: She lingered a few months after the heart attack. Such practices still linger among the older natives.</li><li>to dwell in contemplation, thought, or enjoyment: to linger over the beauty of a painting.</li><li>to be tardy in action; delay; dawdle: to linger in discharging one's duties.</li><li>Synonyms: tarry</li><li>to walk slowly; saunter along.</li><li>Synonyms: loiter</li></ul><p><strong>verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object) to pass (time, life, etc.) in a leisurely or a tedious manner (usually followed by away or out): We lingered away the whole summer at the beach.</li><li>Archaic: to draw out or protract.</li></ul>