Stay the night
phrase
To spend the evening and night at a place different from your home.
My flight got delayed so I had to stay the night in a hotel.

Often appears as...
- wants to stay the night
- can i stay the night
phrase
To engage in sexual activity, typically occurring after a date or casual outing.
They had dinner and he decided to stay the night.

Often appears as...
- decided to stay the night
- invited to stay the night
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
phrase
To spend the evening and night at a place different from your home.
My flight got delayed so I had to stay the night in a hotel.

Often appears as...
- wants to stay the night
- can i stay the night
phrase
To engage in sexual activity, typically occurring after a date or casual outing.
They had dinner and he decided to stay the night.

Often appears as...
- decided to stay the night
- invited to stay the night
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 2

Unexpected Circumstances
Used when plans change due to unforeseen events, like travel issues.

The storm hit, so we had to stay the night at a nearby motel.
Friendly Offer
Expresses hospitality, offering someone a place to sleep.

It's getting late — you can stay the night if you want.
Safety Concern
Suggests staying indoors at night for safety, particularly in bad weather or late hours.

The roads are icy; it's safer to stay the night here.
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension