Difference between gainstay and stay

Definitions

verb

1. dwell
2. overcome or allay
3. stay behind
4. remain behind
5. fasten with stays

noun

1. (nautical) brace consisting of a heavy rope or wire cable used as a support for a mast or spar
2. a thin strip of metal or bone that is used to stiffen a garment (e.g. a corset)
3. a judicial order forbidding some action until an event occurs or the order is lifted
4. the state of inactivity following an interruption
5. continuing or remaining in a place or state

Examples

A few people were crying, and one girl was very sick and puking, but most people tried to stay calm.

I just stayed the dorm to around and shoot the breeze with a couple of friends.

He's managed to stay calm and controlled when the other slebs have been going a bit mad, and just got on with the winning.

View all examples