What Does ‘Stay’ Mean in Shakespeare’s Works?

In Shakespeare’s works, the word ‘stay’ often carries a deeper meaning than its modern usage. It can mean to stop, wait, or remain in a place. However, in the context of Shakespeare’s plays and poetry, ‘stay’ is frequently used to convey a sense of urgency, longing, or command. For example, when a character says ‘stay,’ they might be asking someone to wait for them, to remain by their side, or to halt an action. This multifaceted use of ‘stay’ adds layers of emotion and complexity to the dialogue, making it a powerful tool in Shakespeare’s literary arsenal.