Dwells

/dwɛlz/ verb

Definition

Lives or resides in a place, or thinks about something for a long time without moving on.

Etymology

From Old English 'dwellan' originally meaning 'to lead astray or hinder,' which shifted to mean 'to linger' and then 'to remain in a place.' The meaning evolved from 'delay' to 'stay put.'

Kelly Says

The phrase 'don't dwell on it' comes from this same root—both meanings connect the idea that staying in one place and staying stuck in your thoughts are basically the same kind of lingering.

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