hover

[ˈhʌvər]

hover Definition

• 1. to stay in one place in the air, usually by moving the wings quickly
• 2. to wait near a place, especially because you are uncertain or nervous about what to do

Using hover: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hover" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The helicopter hovered above the building.

• Example

  The hummingbird hovered over the flower.

• Example

  She hovered nervously at the door, unsure whether to enter or not.

• Example

  He hovered around the buffet table, waiting for the food to be served.

hover Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hover

• levitate
• float
• drift
• linger
• loiter

Antonyms for hover

• descend
• land

Phrases with hover

• hover on the brink/edge of something

  to be very close to a dangerous or exciting situation

  Example

  The company is hovering on the brink of bankruptcy.

• hover over someone/something

  to watch or protect someone or something closely and constantly

  Example

  The mother hen hovered over her chicks to keep them warm and safe.

• hover in the background/wings

  to stay near a situation without being directly involved in it

  Example

  The manager hovered in the background, watching the employees work.

Origins of hover

from Middle English 'hoveren', meaning 'linger, tarry'

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Summary: hover in Brief

The verb 'hover' [ˈhʌvər] has two main meanings. The first refers to staying in one place in the air, usually by moving the wings quickly, as in 'The hummingbird hovered over the flower.' The second meaning is to wait near a place, especially because you are uncertain or nervous about what to do, as in 'She hovered nervously at the door, unsure whether to enter or not.' 'Hover' can also be used in phrases like 'hover on the brink of something,' indicating a dangerous or exciting situation, and 'hover over someone/something,' meaning to watch or protect closely.