1. To remain in the same spot or place: Jill didn't feel well that weekend, so she stayed home instead of going on the weekend camping trip with her friends.
2. To postpone leaving: It was such a nice visit that Grace asked her friend to stay for dinner that evening.
3. To prolong a certain situation or position: Mrs. Smart, Jim's teacher, scolded him for disobeying the rules, and so he decided to stay out of trouble as long as possible!
4. To live somewhere for a short time: While Janet's house was being renovated she stayed with her friend Susan for a few days.
5. To stop or prevent judicial proceedings: Because the two parties finally came to an agreement, the lawsuit was stayed.