means To stay suspended in the air over one spot, or to linger close by something without quite committing to it.

from From Middle English 'hoveren,' a frequentative of the older 'hoven' meaning to tarry or wait about. The verb began as a word for loitering and waiting — humans hanging around aimlessly — long before it described hummingbirds and helicopters. The frequentative '-er' ending suggests repeated, ongoing action, which fits perfectly: hovering is the act of staying put on purpose, over and over, in mid-action.