hang on

verb

hung on; hanging on; hangs on

intransitive verb

1
: to keep hold : hold on to something
2
: to persist tenaciously
a cold that hung on all spring
3
Phrases
hang on to
: to hold, grip, or keep tenaciously

Examples of hang on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The battery hung on for over a day of workouts, calls, and sleep tracking without begging for juice. PC Magazine, 16 July 2025 The health and safety of our communities should not hang on the whim of a political ideologue. Jesse Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025 The Rays were hanging on to a 1-1 tie in the sixth when starter Ryan Pepiot had one on and two out. Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 July 2025 New York’s small businesses are hanging on by a thread. Tosha Miller, New York Daily News, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for hang on

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1719, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hang on was circa 1719

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Cite this Entry

“Hang on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hang%20on. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

hang on

verb
1
: to keep hold or possession especially tightly
hang on or you'll fall
hang on to your money
2
: to continue stubbornly
a cold that hung on all spring

More from Merriam-Webster on hang on

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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