1. A time of being in a place, normally as a guest or visitor: The duration of Mildred's stay in hospital depended on what Dr. Black's opinion would be of her condition.
2. To restrain or control: Jack used to get bored at home, but recently he has a new hobby which is a good stay against the dullness he felt before.
3. An order which stops or suspends judicial proceedings: Greg was hoping for a stay of his execution by the governor at the last minute.
4. A thin and narrow strip of plastic, metal, or bone which is needed to stiffen corsets, etc.: The stays in Mary's bodice were damaged in the washing machine, so she couldn't wear it any more.
5. A device used to support something: The rope Sam used as a stay was good for securing and stabilizing the mast on his boat.

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.