Hover

/ˈhʌvər/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To remain in one place in the air; to hang suspended.

The drone will hover above the field to capture aerial photos.

To remain in a state of uncertainty or indecision.

She hovered between choosing a career in art or science.

To move to and fro near a fixed point.

The hummingbird will hover near the flowers to feed on nectar.

To stay close to a person or group, often in a protective manner.

The mother hen hovered over her chicks to keep them safe from predators.

Middle English, possibly from Old English 'hoferian', meaning 'to hover'

hovering with intent

Staying close to someone or something with a purpose.

hover over someone's shoulder

To watch closely or intrusively as someone works.

levitate

To rise or cause to rise and hover in the air.

drift

To be carried slowly by a current of air or water.

float

To rest or move on or near the surface of a liquid without sinking.

To procrastinate or stall.

Stop hovering around; make a decision already!

To stay near someone, usually to eavesdrop.

He was just hovering, trying to hear what they were talking about.