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 location, unpolished but still touched with Telfar’s essence, as his white and neutral-toned tank tops hung on clotheslines from building to building looming above the audience. Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025 People have many opinions on which travel accessories are the best, from compression packing cubes that save luggage space to toiletry bags that can hang on the bathroom door. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2025 While much of Tesla's trillion-dollar valuation hangs on Musk's bet on commercializing robotaxis, most of the company's current revenue and profits come from its core business of selling electric vehicles - one that has been under pressure due to high interest rates and rising competition. Akash Sriram, USA Today, 2 July 2025 Aerial photographs of the property from the 1930s hang on one of the walls of the center where Emilie Sweet, the park’s interpretive naturalist, prepares for her daily work. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 2 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 10 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

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