The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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loiter

verb

/ˈlɔɪtə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of loiter

To linger or remain in a place without any specific purpose or reason, often in a way that appears aimless or suspicious.
"The students were warned not to loiter in the school hallways between classes."

Detailed meaning of loiter

When someone 'loiters,' they stay in a particular location, such as a street corner, park, or public area, for an extended period, often idly or without any apparent legitimate business. This term can sometimes carry negative connotations, as loitering may be associated with individuals who are loitering with intent to engage in illegal activities or causing a disturbance. 'Loiter' underscores the idea of lingering without a clear or lawful purpose, raising concerns about the person's presence and motives, particularly in public spaces or areas where such behavior may disrupt or pose a security risk.

Example sentences containing loiter

1. Kids often loiter around the playground after school.
2. Shoppers sometimes loiter near the store's entrance.
3. Tourists tend to loiter in the town square.
4. Strangers frequently loiter near the park benches.
5. Teens occasionally loiter by the convenience store.
6. People often loiter near the bus stop.

History and etymology of loiter

The verb 'loiter' has an etymology that reflects its connotation of lingering without purpose. It originated from the Middle English word 'loitren,' which meant 'to linger' or 'to be slow.' This Middle English term is believed to be related to the Old English word 'lēotan,' meaning 'to delay' or 'to allow to remain.' Thus, 'loiter' originally described the act of delaying or lingering, often in a manner that appeared aimless or slow. Over time, the word took on the modern sense of lingering or remaining in a place without any specific purpose or reason, sometimes in a way that raises suspicion or appears purposeless. The etymology of 'loiter' underscores the idea of lingering and suggests a sense of delay or idleness often associated with this behavior.

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Further usage examples of loiter

1. Pedestrians sometimes loiter near the crosswalk.
2. Visitors tend to loiter by the waterfront.
3. Students frequently loiter outside the school gates.
4. Passersby occasionally loiter near the street corner.
5. Homeless individuals often loiter under the bridge.
6. Hikers tend to loiter at scenic overlooks.
7. Joggers sometimes loiter by the trailhead.
8. Commuters frequently loiter near the subway entrance.
9. Protesters occasionally loiter in front of the government building.
10. Picnickers tend to loiter in the park on weekends.
11. Art enthusiasts sometimes loiter around the museum entrance.
12. Bar-goers often loiter outside the nightclub.
13. Cyclists frequently loiter near the bike rack.
14. Theater buffs tend to loiter near the box office.
15. Dog owners sometimes loiter at the dog park.
16. Musicians often loiter by the street corner for tips.
17. Foodies tend to loiter near the food truck.
18. Spectators occasionally loiter near the sports arena.
19. Coffee lovers frequently loiter at the café's outdoor seating.
20. The teenagers like to loiter in front of the convenience store.
21. It's not safe to loiter in a dark alley at night.
22. The security guard warned the man not to loiter in the parking lot.
23. The signs prohibit loitering on the premises.
24. The police officer asked the suspicious person why they were loitering in the area.
25. The store manager asked the loiterers to leave the property.
26. The homeless people often loiter around the train station.
27. The city council passed a law against loitering in certain public areas.
28. The cafe owner didn't mind if customers wanted to loiter and chat.
29. The group of friends would loiter in the park on warm summer days.
30. The security cameras were installed to deter loitering and vandalism.
31. The hotel staff asked the guests not to loiter in the lobby late at night.