Meaning & Definition of word "Staring"

Staring

/ˈstɛrɪŋ/

verb:

  • 1. to look fixedly or vacantly at someone or something with wide-open eyes.
    • Example: She was staring at the painting, lost in its intricate details.
  • 2. to direct one's gaze steadily and intently.
    • Example: He kept staring at his phone, waiting for a notification.
  • 3. to look at something in surprise or disbelief.
    • Example: We were all staring when he made that unexpected announcement.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English staring, present participle of stare.

Common Phrases and Expressions

staring contest:

A game in which two people try to stare at each other without blinking.

staring into space:

Daydreaming or being lost in thought without any specific focus.

staring blankly:

Looking at something without comprehension or awareness.

Related Words

gaze:

To look steadily and intently at something.

glare:

To stare in an angry or fierce manner.

ogle:

To stare at in a flirtatious or lecherous way.

Slang Meanings of staring

Meaning: Creeping

Example Sentence: He was creeping on her from across the room.

Meaning: Checking someone out

Example Sentence: I saw him staring; he was definitely checking her out.