loitering

[ˈlɔɪtərɪŋ]

loitering Definition

• 1. the act of remaining in a public place for a long time without any clear reason or purpose
• 2. to stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose

Using loitering: Examples

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

• Example

  The police warned the teenagers about loitering in the park after dark.

• Example

  He was arrested for loitering outside the store.

• Example

  The security guard asked the man to stop loitering in front of the building.

loitering Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for loitering

• lurking
• lingering
• idling
• loafing
• hanging around

Antonyms for loitering

• working
• moving
• progressing

Phrases with loitering

• no loitering

  a sign that prohibits people from standing or waiting around in a certain area

  Example

  The sign outside the store read 'No Loitering'.

• loitering with intent

  the act of remaining in a public place with the intention of committing a crime

  Example

  The suspect was charged with loitering with intent to commit theft.

• loitering aimlessly

  the act of remaining in a public place without any clear reason or purpose

  Example

  The homeless man was seen loitering aimlessly in the park.

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Summary: loitering in Brief

Loitering [ˈlɔɪtərɪŋ] refers to the act of remaining in a public place without any clear reason or purpose. It is often associated with negative connotations and can be prohibited by signs such as 'No Loitering.' 'Loitering with intent' refers to the act of remaining in a public place with the intention of committing a crime. Synonyms include 'lurking,' 'lingering,' and 'hanging around.'