from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Linger \Lin"ger\ (l[i^][ng]"g[~e]r), v. i. [imp. & p. p.
{Lingered} (l[i^][ng]"g[~e]rd); p. pr. & vb. n. {Lingering}.]
[OE. lengen to tarry, AS. lengan to prolong, put off, fr.
lang long. [root]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.
[1913 Webster]
Nor cast one longing, lingering look behind. --Gray.
[1913 Webster]
Perhaps thou linger'st, in deep thoughts detained.
--Milton.
Syn: To loiter; lag; saunter; delay; tarry; stop; hesitate.
[1913 Webster]