loiter
58 synonyms and 7 antonyms for loiter, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To stand or wait around somewhere without any clear purpose.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use loiter
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle Dutch loteren ("to shake, wobble, dawdle"), via Middle English loitren. Related to the English word "lout."
Full origin of loiter →Frequently asked questions
What does “loiter” mean?
The word “loiter” means to stand or wait around somewhere without any clear purpose. In plain terms, to hang around somewhere with no obvious reason, often looking a bit suspicious or aimless.
How do you pronounce “loiter”?
“Loiter” is pronounced LOY-tuh (/ˈlɔɪtɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “loiter” in a sentence?
Here is “loiter” used in a sentence: “A group of teenagers were loitering outside the shop.”
What is another word for “loiter”?
Words with a similar meaning to “loiter” include arse about, arse around, bludge, bum around, cabbage and clown around.
What is the opposite of “loiter”?
The opposite of “loiter” — its antonyms — are energize, make a move, leave, scraffle and scramble.
What part of speech is “loiter”?
“Loiter” is a verb.
Where does the word “loiter” come from?
The word “loiter” comes from Middle English. From Middle Dutch loteren ("to shake, wobble, dawdle"), via Middle English loitren. Related to the English word "lout.".