loiter

UK: ˈlɔɪtə | US: ˈlɔɪtər

Definition

  1. vi. to stand or wait somewhere without any clear purpose

  2. vi. to move slowly or with frequent stops

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "loiter" likely stems from Middle Dutch loteren ("to wobble, waver"), reflecting the aimless movement of someone idling. The -er suffix reinforces its verbal action. Over time, it shifted from physical wobbling to lingering without purpose.

Examples

  1. Teenagers often loiter near the convenience store after school.

  2. Security guards asked the man to stop loitering in the parking lot.

  3. The dog loitered by the kitchen, hoping for scraps.

  4. Tourists loitered around the monument, taking photos.

  5. Laws prohibit loitering in this area after midnight.