STAY definition: to spend some time in a place, in a situation, with a person or group, etc. See examples of stay used in a sentence. The comprehensive definition of stay. Includes pronunciation, synonyms, etymology, and usage examples to help you master this word. The meaning of STAY is a large strong rope usually of wire used to support a mast. How to use stay in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Stay. Unpack the word stay in our comprehensive glossary. Learn its varied meanings, historical origins, and practical usage through examples and idioms. Perfect for students and language enthusiasts. stay (third-person singular simple present stays, present participle staying, simple past and past participle stayed or (obsolete) staid) (intransitive) To remain in a particular place, especially for a definite or short period of time; sojourn; abide. quotations To stay is to remain or wait in the same place. When you tell your dog to stay, you expect her to keep sitting until you call her over. stay (noun) stay (noun) stay–at–home (adjective) staying power (noun) short–stay (adjective) course (noun) here (adverb) put (adjective) tune (verb) 1 stay / ˈ steɪ/ verb stays; stayed; staying Britannica Dictionary definition of STAY 1 a [no object] : to continue to be in the same place or with the same person or group for a period of. STAY definition: 1. to not move away from or leave a place or situation: 2. to continue doing something, or to…. Learn more. 26 meanings: 1. to continue or remain in a certain place, position, etc 2. to continue to be; remain 3. to reside temporarily. Click for more definitions. Define stay. stay synonyms, stay pronunciation, stay translation, English dictionary definition of stay. v. stayed , stay·ing , stays v. intr. 1. a. To continue to be in a place or condition: stay home; stay calm. b. To remain or sojourn as a guest or lodger.