Dictionarymoondreamy preoccupation
verb

moon

To linger in a dreamy or lovesick mood.

He moons about the garden after the visitor leaves.

Etymology

The verb belongs to figurative uses of moon associated with dreamy or distracted behavior. It describes lingering in such a state, often through romantic preoccupation.

More examples

  • She spent the afternoon mooning over an old photograph.
  • He had mooned around for days after their farewell.
  • Stop mooning over the letter and answer it.

Forms

moon · moons · mooned · mooning

Similar words

pine
Emphasizes distress or longing for someone absent.
daydream
Need not involve romantic longing or wandering aimlessly.