STAY Meaning and
Definition
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Stay can refer to several different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Generally, stay is used as a verb and means to remain in the same place or to not move away. It implies a sense of stillness or continuity in one's location.
In a physical sense, to stay can mean to temporarily reside or be accommodated in a particular place, such as staying at a hotel or staying with a friend. This form of stay often involves a planned or prolonged duration.
Stay can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of remaining in a particular condition or situation. For example, to stay calm implies maintaining a composed or unruffled demeanor, even in challenging or stressful circumstances.
Additionally, stay can signify a temporary suspension or delay in a legal proceeding or judgment. In this context, it means to hold off or halt the progress of a legal action or decision until further notice or a specific condition is met.
As a noun, stay refers to the act of remaining in a place or holding a particular condition. For instance, a long-term guest might be referred to as a permanent stay. It can also describe a support or brace used to strengthen or stabilize something, such as the stays on a ship or the stays on a corset.
Overall, stay conveys the idea of remaining, whether it is in a physical location, a mental state, or the prolongation of legal proceedings. The specific meaning of stay depends on the context in which it is used.
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The bar of the horse's hoof.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• In a ship, a strong rope extended from the head of a mast down to some part of the vessel in order to give it support-the stays of a ship are distinguished by different names.
• Continuance or abode in a place; a prop or support; in engin., a part in tension to hold parts together.
• To delay; to obstruct; to keep from departure; to repress; to remain or continue in a place; to wait; to forbear to act; to stop; to stand still; to rely; to prop or hold up.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for STAY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for STAY
Etymology of STAY
The word "stay" has a complex etymology derived from different roots in different languages. Here are a few sources that contributed to its development:
1. Old English: The Old English word "stæġ" originally referred to a support or a prop. This word further evolved from the Proto-Germanic root "*stagaz" meaning "pole" or "stick". In Old English, "stæġ" was used in the context of supporting or holding something firmly, both in a physical and metaphorical sense.
2. Anglo-Norman French: Following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, French greatly influenced the English language. The word "estai" in Anglo-Norman French was used with a similar meaning as the Old English "stæġ". It meant "support" or "upright post".
3.
Idioms with the word STAY
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here to stay
The idiom "here to stay" refers to something that has become established or made a lasting impact and is not likely to change or go away in the foreseeable future.
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stay put
The idiom "stay put" means to remain in one place or position, typically without moving or changing locations. It implies staying where you are instead of moving or venturing elsewhere.
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hang/stay loose
The idiom "hang/stay loose" means to remain relaxed, calm, and flexible in a given situation, without getting stressed, tense, or anxious. It implies being open to changes and spontaneous actions rather than being rigid or overly structured.
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be/stay/keep one jump ahead
The idiom "be/stay/keep one jump ahead" means to remain or be ahead of someone or something, usually in terms of being more knowledgeable, prepared, or resourceful. It implies staying one step ahead of potential problems, challenges, or competitors by being proactive and making quick decisions.
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stay over
The idiom "stay over" refers to spending the night or staying at a place, often temporarily, beyond the usual or planned duration. It implies staying overnight instead of leaving as originally intended.
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stay over (smw)
The idiom "stay over" refers to staying the night or sleeping at a place other than one's own home. It often implies an overnight visit or accommodation that is typically temporary.
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stay at sm place
The idiom "stay at sm place" typically means to remain or continue in a particular location or position for an extended period of time. It implies the act of not leaving or moving away from a particular place.
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stay with
The idiom "stay with" can have multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are two commonly used definitions:
1. To continue or persist in a particular course of action or behavior. It implies remaining committed or dedicated to something or someone despite difficulties or challenges.
Example: "Even when things get tough, we need to stay with our original plan and not give up."
2. To remain in someone's memory or to be remembered. It often refers to something or someone being memorable or sticking in one's mind.
Example: "Even after all these years, that performance still stays with me. It was truly remarkable."
It is important to note that the intended meaning of the idiom "stay with" can vary depending on the context it is
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stay up late
The idiom "stay up late" means to remain awake and active during nighttime, exceeding one's usual bedtime.
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stay up
The idiom "stay up" is commonly used to refer to remaining awake or not going to bed, typically beyond one's usual bedtime or the intended time to sleep.
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stay under
The idiom "stay under" typically means to remain unnoticed or to avoid attracting attention or scrutiny, often with the intention of not causing any trouble or controversy. It suggests keeping a low profile and not standing out in any way, whether in a social, professional, or personal setting.
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stay out
The phrase "stay out" typically means to remain outside or to avoid entering a certain place or situation. It can also be used to advise someone to not get involved in a particular matter or to mind their own business.
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stay on top of
The idiom "stay on top of" means to remain informed about or be in control of a situation by actively monitoring or managing it. It implies staying updated, organized, and proactive in order to stay ahead or be well-prepared.
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stay on
The idiom "stay on" generally refers to remaining in a particular position, job, or situation for an extended period of time, rather than leaving or moving elsewhere. It can imply dedication, commitment, or persistence in staying with something or someone despite difficulties or challenges.
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stay off
The idiom "stay off" means to avoid or refrain from doing something or going somewhere, particularly when it is advised or necessary to do so. It typically implies staying away from a specific place, activity, or situation for one's own safety, well-being, or to avoid trouble.
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stay in
The idiom "stay in" typically means to remain at one's current location or to not leave a particular place.
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stay for
The idiom "stay for" typically means to remain or remain staying in a particular place, situation, or event. It implies remaining longer than necessary or expected, perhaps due to enjoyment, interest, or a desire to fully experience or participate in something.
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stay down
The idiom "stay down" generally means to remain in a prone or lower position, either physically or metaphorically. It often suggests the need to avoid attracting attention or to stay hidden or subdued. It can also refer to staying persistent or resilient in the face of challenges, setbacks, or difficulties.
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stay clear of
The idiom "stay clear of" means to avoid or steer away from something or someone. It implies keeping a safe distance or abstaining from involvement or contact in order to prevent negative consequences or difficulties.
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stay back
The idiom "stay back" typically means to keep oneself at a safe distance, often as a precautionary measure or in order to avoid danger or harm.
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stay at
The idiom "stay at" typically refers to temporarily residing or remaining in a particular place, such as a hotel, a friend's house, or any accommodation. It suggests spending a period of time in that location without permanently settling or establishing a permanent residence.
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stay at sth
The idiom "stay at something" typically means to continue doing or devoting oneself to a particular task, activity, or job, without giving up or quitting despite difficulties or challenges. It implies perseverance and determination in pursuing a goal or overcoming obstacles.
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stay off (sth)
The idiom "stay off (sth)" means to avoid or keep away from something. It suggests keeping a distance from a particular thing, place, or situation to prevent negative consequences or undesirable outcomes.
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stay up (for sth)
The idiom "stay up (for sth)" means to remain awake, usually beyond one's regular bedtime, in order to wait for or actively engage in a specific event or activity. It implies resisting the urge to sleep in order to participate in something anticipated or important.
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stay with sm or sth
The idiom "stay with someone or something" means to remain close to or continue being involved with them or it. It can refer to various situations including physically staying close to someone, sticking by their side through difficult times, or remaining committed to a particular idea, belief, or project.
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stay back (from sth)
The idiom "stay back (from sth)" means to maintain a safe distance or to refrain from getting too close to something or someone. It suggests exercising caution or avoiding involvement in a potentially dangerous or risky situation.
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stay in (sth)
The idiom "stay in (sth)" typically means to remain or continue in a particular place or situation, often implying that the person or entity being referred to does not venture outside or deviate from the given context. It can also imply an absence of progress or growth.
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be here to stay
The idiom "be here to stay" means that something or someone is permanent or established and will continue to exist or be present for a long time. It suggests that the subject is not just a passing trend or temporary phenomenon.
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keep/stay/steer clear (of somebody/something)
The idiom "keep/stay/steer clear (of somebody/something)" means to avoid or stay away from a person, place, or situation in order to prevent problems, conflicts, or unwanted interactions. It implies maintaining a distance or not getting involved with someone or something that may be potentially harmful, dangerous, or detrimental.
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stay your hand
The idiom "stay your hand" means to restrain or hold back from taking action, specifically in regards to a physical act of violence or aggression. It serves as an urging or request to think twice before acting impulsively or aggressively.
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stay ahead
The idiom "stay ahead" means to maintain a position of advantage or superiority in a competitive situation. It refers to being one step ahead of others, usually through constant effort, anticipation, and proactive action, to avoid falling behind or being surpassed by competition or circumstances.
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stay in the dark
The idiom "stay in the dark" typically means to remain uninformed or unaware about a certain situation or topic. It refers to someone intentionally choosing not to seek or acquire knowledge or information, possibly due to a lack of interest, avoidance, or fear of the truth.
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stay (one's) hand
The idiom "stay (one's) hand" means to refrain from taking action or to withhold oneself from doing something, usually with regards to a decision or action that could have negative consequences. It typically implies exercising caution, suspending judgment, or resisting the urge to act impulsively.
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stay someone's hand
The idiom "stay someone's hand" means to prevent someone from taking a specific action, especially a violent or harmful one. It is typically used in situations where someone intends to harm or attack another person, but is stopped or dissuaded from doing so.
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stay your/somebody's hand
The idiom "stay your/somebody's hand" means to refrain from taking action or making a decision, especially when it involves causing harm or exerting control over someone or something. It suggests exercising restraint, ceasing an impulse or inclination, or preventing oneself or others from implementing a course of action.
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stay at home
The idiom "stay at home" refers to the act of remaining or staying within one's home, choosing not to go out or participate in activities or events outside the home.
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stay one jump ahead
The idiom "stay one jump ahead" means to anticipate or be prepared for potential problems or challenges before they occur. It emphasizes the importance of being proactive and maintaining an advantage or edge over others in order to stay ahead in a competitive or challenging situation.
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stay the distance
The idiom "stay the distance" means to remain committed, endure, or persevere until the end of a task, race, or challenging situation. It expresses the idea of not giving up or quitting, but rather staying engaged and determined until the intended goal or objective is achieved.
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stay away
The idiom "stay away" means to keep a distance from someone or something, to avoid being near them or involved with them.
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stay abreast of
The idiom "stay abreast of" means to keep up to date or informed about a particular topic, situation, or development. It implies staying current and knowledgeable on the latest advancements, changes, or news related to something.
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stay the course
The idiom "stay the course" means to persevere or continue with a plan or belief, regardless of difficulties, obstacles, or criticism. It implies maintaining one's path, not giving up, and seeing things through until the desired outcome is achieved.
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stay up until
The idiom "stay up until" refers to staying awake or remaining active until a specified time or event, often later than one's usual bedtime. It implies going beyond the normal or expected hour, usually to accomplish a specific task or fulfill a commitment.
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sell in May and stay away
The idiom "sell in May and stay away" is a piece of investment advice that suggests selling stocks or investments in May and avoiding the market throughout the summer months until later in the year, typically September or October. It implies that the summer months tend to be volatile or bearish for the market, and by selling before May, investors can potentially avoid losses or setbacks.
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stay hungry
The idiom "stay hungry" means to maintain a strong desire for success or achievement, to continue to have a determined and ambitious mindset despite previous accomplishments or success. It urges one to remain motivated, constantly seeking improvement and new opportunities instead of becoming complacent.
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stay behind
The idiom "stay behind" can have multiple meanings based on the context. Here are a few possible definitions:
1. To choose not to participate or leave when others have departed or moved forward.
Example: After the meeting, Jane decided to stay behind and discuss the issue with her manager.
2. To remain in a specific place or position, often for the purpose of providing assistance, support, or protection.
Example: The soldiers agreed to stay behind and guard the fort while the rest of the troops advanced.
3. To intentionally delay or hold back progress or development.
Example: The lack of funding has caused the project to stay behind schedule.
4. To intentionally not progress or improve at the same pace as others.
Example: Due to his
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stay abreast of (someone or something)
To "stay abreast of (someone or something)" means to stay current or up-to-date with the latest information, progress, or developments related to a particular person, event, topic, or situation. It implies actively keeping oneself informed and remaining knowledgeable about the latest changes or advancements. This idiom often conveys the idea of staying on par with or not falling behind in terms of knowledge or familiarity with a specific subject.
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stay the night
The idiom "stay the night" refers to spending the night at a particular place, typically at someone else's home or accommodation, instead of leaving or going back to one's own location. It implies the intention or invitation to remain overnight rather than departing.
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keep to, stay on, etc. the straight and narrow
The idiom "keep to the straight and narrow" means to adhere to a morally upright or morally correct path of behavior. It refers to staying away from immoral or unethical actions and remaining on the right track in life. The phrase can also imply maintaining a disciplined and focused approach to achieving goals.
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stay abreast of sth
The idiom "stay abreast of something" means to stay up to date or informed about something, usually referring to the knowledge or awareness of new information, developments, or events related to a specific subject or topic. It implies staying current or keeping oneself informed about the latest advancements, changes, or trends in a particular field or area of interest.
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stay young at heart
The idiom "stay young at heart" means to maintain a youthful or childlike outlook on life, regardless of one's age or physical appearance. It implies having a positive and adventurous mindset, being open to new experiences, and embracing a sense of wonder and joy. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a youthful spirit, curiosity, and enthusiasm for life.
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stay on the sidelines
The idiom "stay on the sidelines" refers to choosing to remain uninvolved or neutral in a particular situation, usually suggesting that one is not actively participating or taking a side in an event or conflict. It can imply a sense of observing from a distance or refraining from getting directly involved.
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a stay of execution
The idiom "a stay of execution" refers to a postponement or temporary halt to a punishment, particularly referring to a delay in carrying out a scheduled death sentence. It can also be used figuratively to describe a delay or reprieve from any impending negative outcome or consequence.
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have come to stay
The idiom "have come to stay" means that something or someone has become permanent or established and is no longer temporary or fleeting. It suggests that the particular thing or person will remain for an extended period or indefinitely.
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the more things change, the more they stay the same
The idiom "the more things change, the more they stay the same" means that despite apparent or superficial changes, the underlying nature or essence of a situation remains unchanged. It suggests that even when circumstances evolve or evolve, the fundamental aspects or patterns often remain consistent or predictable.
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stay within
The idiom "stay within" means to remain within the limits or boundaries set or expected, to not exceed or go beyond what is acceptable or allowed. It suggests conforming to rules, guidelines, or restrictions and not acting in an excessive or unwarranted manner.
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stay after
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stay to
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stay by
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Come back when you can stay longer
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(be, remain, stay, etc.) in the closet
To keep one's true feelings, identity, or preferences hidden or secret.
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be/stay one jump ahead
To be or stay one jump ahead means to be in a position where you are able to anticipate or prepare for future events or developments before they happen, giving you an advantage or head start over others.
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stay-at-home mom
A stay-at-home mom is a mother who does not work outside the home and remains at home to take care of her children and household responsibilities.
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steer/stay/keep clear
"Steer/stay/keep clear" is an idiomatic expression that means to avoid or stay away from someone or something that may be harmful or dangerous. It can also refer to staying out of trouble or avoiding a difficult or undesirable situation.
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keep something, stay, etc. under wraps
To keep something under wraps means to keep it secret or confidential, to not reveal or share it with others. It involves keeping something hidden or private.
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stay!
The idiom "stay!" is a command given to someone or something to remain in a specific location or position. It can also be used to instruct someone to stop moving or keep doing what they are doing.
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be, stay, stand, etc. stock-still
The idiom "be, stay, stand, etc. stock-still" means to remain completely motionless or still without moving or making any noise.
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be, stay, etc. young at heart
To have a youthful or positive attitude and outlook on life, regardless of one's age.
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hang (or stay) loose
To remain calm, relaxed, and easygoing; not to worry or rush.
Similar spelling words for STAY
Conjugate verb Stay
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have stayed
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would have stayed
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CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
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would have been staying
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he/she/it
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would have been staying
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
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would be staying
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would be staying
FUTURE
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FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be staying
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FUTURE PERFECT
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will have stayed
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FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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will have been staying
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will have been staying
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will have been staying
IMPERATIVE
you
stay
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let´s stay
to stay
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was staying
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were staying
he/she/it
was staying
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PAST PARTICIPLE
stayed
PAST PERFECT
I
had stayed
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PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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had been staying
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PRESENT
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stay
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PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am staying
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PRESENT PARTICIPLE
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PRESENT PERFECT
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PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
stay
SIMPLE PAST
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stayed
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