linger on
To stay around or keep going longer than you'd expect — like a smell, a memory, or a feeling that won't go away.
Meanings
To remain present or active longer than expected, especially of a feeling, memory, smell, or condition.
"The scent of her perfume lingered on in the room long after she had left."
"The song lingers on in your head long after it has ended."
— Common critical/journalistic formulation used in music reviews; widely attested
To continue living or surviving despite illness or difficulty; to remain alive beyond expectations.
"The patient lingered on for several weeks before finally passing away peacefully."
Commonly used for memories, feelings, scents, illnesses, or people who are slow to leave. Has a slightly melancholy or romantic quality. Often used in literary and descriptive contexts. Common across all varieties of English.
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "linger on" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "linger on" on Looplines