In this sentence, the word "lingering" suggests that the inhabitants of Schellbourne are still present in the town despite its desolation and decay. It implies that they are hanging on or remaining in the town for some reason, even though it may no longer be a thriving community. The term conveys a sense of persistence or an unwillingness to leave, which adds to the somber tone of the description of the town.
Read the sentence from paragraph 4.
Passing through the dead town of Schellbourne last month, I asked one of the few lingering inhabitants why the town was built.
What do you think the word lingering means as it is used in this sentence?
1 answer