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Tarry - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Tarry means to stay longer than intended, often delaying departure. It can also describe lingering in a place or hesitating before acting, suggesting a slow or reluctant pause.

tarry

/ˈtɛri/ /ˈtɑːri/

Definition:

To delay or linger in a place, or to stay longer than intended.

Synonyms:

linger, dawdle, loiter, delay

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

hurry, depart

Common Collocations:

tarry awhile, tarry too long, tarry on the way

Derivatives:

tarried, tarrying

Usage Tips:

Use "tarry" to describe lingering intentionally or unintentionally; often poetic or formal.

Common Phrases:

tarry not, tarry a while, tarry the night

Etymology:

From Middle English "tarien," meaning to delay or hinder; possibly of Germanic origin.

Examples:

  • 1. She did not tarry long after the meeting ended.
  • 2. The travelers tarried at the inn for a week.
  • 3. Don’t tarry—we must leave before sunset!
  • 4. He tarried by the river, lost in thought.

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