outstay

[ out-stey ]

verb (used with object)

1. to stay longer than.
2. to stay beyond the time or duration of; overstay:

   to outstay one's welcome.

outstay

/ ˌaʊtˈsteɪ /

verb

1. to stay longer than
2. to stay beyond (a limit)
3. outstay one's welcome
   See overstay

Word History and Origins

Origin of outstay¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; out- + stay ¹

Example Sentences

Theobald could not find an excuse to outstay his colleague, since they were both guests at the same house.

From Project Gutenberg

Even funerals and lovers must bow to meal-times, and Jack Meredith was not the man to outstay his welcome.

From Project Gutenberg

He meant to outstay the rest, for he wished to speak with Wetmore alone, and it seemed as though those people would never go.

From Project Gutenberg

I was anxious not to outstay his strength, and I kept my eye on the clock in frequent glances.

From Project Gutenberg

Mommo could easily be made a little sleepier than usual, after being tempted to outstay the others.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• continue
• delay
• hang
• last
• linger
• remain
• reside
• settle
• stand
• stick around
• stop