Definition

To pretend to be sick or unable to work in order to avoid responsibilities or duties.

Example

He decided to malinger instead of going to work on Monday.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard Sam is going to malinger again this week.

Really? I thought he was feeling better this time.

Yeah, but he always finds an excuse to skip work.

I guess some people just can't resist the temptation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malinger → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or ill) and "linger" (meaning to stay or remain). The word describes the act of pretending to be ill in order to avoid work or duty.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is pretending to be 'ill' ('mal-') so they can 'stay' ('linger') away from their responsibilities.

Visually Confused Words