Lin″ger (lĭṉ″gẽr), v. i. [imp. & p. p.Lingered (–gẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n.Lingering.] [OE. lengen to tarry, AS. lengan to prolong, put off, fr. lang long. √125. See Long, a.] To delay; to loiter; to remain or wait long; to be slow or reluctant in parting or moving; to be slow in deciding; to be in suspense; to hesitate.
Nor cast one longing, lingering look behind. Gray.
Perhaps thou linger'st, in deep thoughts detained. Milton.
Syn. — To loiter; lag; saunter; delay; tarry; stop; hesitate.