Pronunciation: [lˈɪŋɡəɹ ˈɒn] (IPA) 
The phrase "linger on" is spelled as /ˈlɪŋɡər ɒn/. In this phrase, the first word "linger" is pronounced as /ˈlɪŋɡər/ with the stress on the first syllable. It means to stay in a place or to be slow in leaving. The preposition "on" is pronounced as /ɒn/ with the stress on the second syllable. When used together, the phrase "linger on" means to remain in a place or a situation for a longer time than necessary.
The phrase "linger on" refers to the act of staying or remaining in a particular place or situation for an extended period of time, often longer than is usual or expected. It conveys the idea of delay or prolonged presence. The term can be used both literally and figuratively, depending on the context.
In a literal sense, "linger on" suggests remaining or staying in a place or position longer than necessary or intended. For example, if someone is enjoying a peaceful walk in a park and decides to "linger on," it means they are extending their stay or prolonging the experience in order to savor the surroundings or capture a particular moment.
Figuratively, "linger on" often implies a psychological state or emotional response. It can refer to someone being emotionally attached to a memory, event, or past experience, causing them to dwell on it for an extended period. For instance, if someone can't seem to move on from a heartbreak and continues to "linger on" the pain, it suggests that they are mentally stuck or fixated on that particular feeling.
Overall, "linger on" denotes a sense of prolongation, whether physical or emotional, beyond what is expected or necessary, highlighting the notion of staying or remaining in a given situation or state for an extended period.
The word "linger on" originated from the combination of two separate words: "linger" and "on".
- "Linger" comes from the Middle English word "lengeren" or "linger" and the Old English word "lengan", which means "to delay" or "to remain" respectively. It can be traced back to the Old Norse word "lengja", which means "to lengthen" or "prolong". The term evolved over time and eventually took on the meaning of staying or remaining in a place or situation.
- "On" is a preposition that dates back to Old English as "on", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*ana". It conveys the idea of being in a place, position, or state.
