Synonyms for

Lingering

Adjective / ˈlɪŋgɜ:ɪŋ / / ˈlɪŋgrɪŋ / Another word for lingering — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

remaining present for a long time; slow to disappear or die

Synonyms & similar words

hover dawdle lurk loiter tarry tarriance linger loaf lallygag lollygag lounge footle rush remaining persisting enduring continuing prolonged lasting staying loitering dawdling delaying procrastinating dragging dillydallying lingual linguistic protracted extending stretching drawn-out

Synonyms by register

Formal

persistent enduring protracted remanent

Informal

sticking around hanging on dawdling dragging

Literary

abiding tenacious unvanishing

Antonyms

departing fleeting passing transient short-lived ephemeral abrupt

Common collocations

  • lingering scent
  • lingering doubt
  • lingering effects
  • lingering pain
  • lingering gaze
  • lingering illness
  • lingering taste

Word family

verb linger
adjective lingering
adverb lingeringly

Usage note

Often used to describe something that remains or persists longer than expected, such as a smell, a feeling, or a doubt. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being slow or reluctant to leave.

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Example sentences

  1. She was lingering at the park, playing with her friends.
  2. The lingering feeling of sadness stayed with me all day.
  3. The aroma of the fresh-baked bread was lingering in the kitchen.
  4. The flu can cause lingering symptoms.
  5. He had a lingering cough after his cold.

Quotes

  • Time has a way of slowly dripping away, a lingering honey that sticks to everything it touches.
  • The human heart has a way of making itself large again even after it's been broken into a million pieces.
  • A kiss is a secret told to the mouth instead of the ear; kisses are the messengers of love and tenderness.

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