loiter
|loi-ter|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈlɔɪtər/
🇬🇧
/ˈlɔɪtə/
idle lingering
Etymology
Etymology Information
'loiter' originates from Middle Dutch, specifically the word 'loteren,' where 'lot' meant 'to be idle.'
Historical Evolution
'loteren' transformed into the Middle English word 'loitren,' and eventually became the modern English word 'loiter.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to be idle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to stand or wait around idly.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose.
Teenagers often loiter around the mall after school.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35