hanging

noun

1

: an execution by strangling or breaking the neck by a suspended noose

2

: something hung: such as

a

: curtain

b

: a covering (such as a tapestry) for a wall

3

: a downward slope : declivity

Synonyms of hanging

• downhill
• dip
• fall
• descent
• decline
• hang

Examples of hanging in a Sentence

The hanging was scheduled for 3 o'clock.

He was sentenced to death by hanging.

Recent Examples on the Web

Vertical hanging creates more room in small closets common in dorms or apartments. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2026

Determined to assert their own vision of justice, Pontiac and others painted themselves for war, picked up their stockpiled arms, and attacked British forts, just two weeks after this hanging. —Literary Hub, 26 May 2026

The pegboard in this case doubles to hold in place various hanging and storage accessories for carrying fishing rods, tools, camping gear and more. —C.c. Weiss may 19, New Atlas, 19 May 2026

Over time, her work expanded to include glass and brass mobiles and wall hangings, which are now sold in independent shops and museum gift stores across the country. —Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hanging

• hanging indention
• hanging lobster claw
• low-hanging fruit

Rhymes for hanging

• banging
• clanging
• ganging
• haranguing
• overhanging

Kids Definition

hanging

1 of 2 noun

hang·​ing

ˈhaŋ-iŋ

1

: an execution by strangling or breaking the neck by a suspended noose

2

: something hung (as a curtain or tapestry)

—usually used in plural

hanging

2 of 2 adjective

1

: located on steeply sloping ground

hanging gardens

2

a

: sticking out

hanging rocks

b

: supported only by the wall on one side

a hanging staircase

3

: suitable for holding a hanging object

4

: punishable by hanging

a hanging offense