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linger out

C1 formal separable transitive
In simple words

To make something go on for a very long time, often in a sad or boring way.

Literal meaning: To stretch (linger) something outward — an extension of the root meaning of 'linger' to delay or be slow.

Meanings

1 C1 idiomatic formal

To extend or prolong a period of time, often tediously or sorrowfully.

"He lingered out his remaining days in the crumbling house, refusing to leave."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Archaic and literary; rarely encountered in modern speech. More likely to be found in 17th–19th century literature. ESL learners are unlikely to need this in active use.

Commonly used with

days hours existence life suffering time

Forms

Base
linger out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lingers out
he/she/it
Past simple
lingered out
yesterday
Past participle
lingered out
have + pp
-ing form
lingering out
continuous

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Synonyms

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