See Also: linger(dictionary)
linger(dictionary)

observer (iou) and linger (oh)


observer (iou)



observer noun. M16.
[from OBSERVE + -ER1.]
An adherent or follower of a law, custom, principle, etc. M16.
L. Wallace They were rigorous observers of the Law as found in the books of Moses.
a. A person who watches, or takes notice (freq. in titles of newspapers); an interested spectator; a person who observes without participating; spec. (a) one who attends a conference, inquiry, etc., to note the proceedings; (b) one posted in an official capacity to an area of conflict to monitor events, supervise a cease-fire, etc. L16.
A. N. Wilson It was becoming clear to most observers that..the war would soon be over in Europe.
b. An interpreter of omens. arch. L16.
A person showing respect or dutiful attention; an obsequious follower. E-M17.
a. A person who makes scientific observations; such a person (real or hypothetical) regarded as having a particular viewpoint or effect. Also, a person in charge of an observatory. L18.
attrib.: Nature This study was not double blind and hence subject to observer bias.
b. Military. A person responsible for observation; esp. (a) a member of an artillery group trained to identify the target; (b) a person trained to spot and identify aircraft, or to reconnoitre the enemy positions from the air; spec. a rank in an air force. L19.

linger (oh)



[Date: 1200-1300; Origin: leng 'to lengthen, delay' (11-16 centuries), from Old English lengan]
also linger on
to continue to exist, be noticeable etc for longer than is usual or desirable
::a taste that lingers in your mouth
::Unfortunately the tax will linger on until April.
also linger on
to stay somewhere a little longer, especially because you do not want to leave
linger over
::They lingered over coffee and missed the last bus.
::I spent a week at Kandersteg and could happily have lingered on.
[always + adverb/preposition] to continue looking at or dealing with something for longer than is usual or desirable
linger on/over
::Mike let his eyes linger on her face.
::There's no need to linger over this stage of the interview.
also linger on
to continue to live although you are slowly dying
::He surprised all the doctors by lingering on for several weeks.