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hanger-on

noun hang·er-on \ ˈhaŋ-ər-ˌȯn , -ˌän \
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Definition of hanger-on

plural hangers-on
: one that hangs around a person, place, or institution especially for personal gain

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First Known Use of hanger-on

1542

in the meaning defined above

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hanger-on Synonyms

Synonyms

bloodsucker, free rider, freeloader, leech, moocher, parasite, sponge, sponger;

Near Antonyms

benefactor, philanthropist, supporter;

Related Words

dependent;

deadbeat, idler;

flunky (also flunkey), henchman, lackey;

cheapskate, miser, niggard, piker, scrooge, skinflint, tightwad;

HANGER-ON Defined for English Language Learners

hanger-on

noun

Definition of hanger-on for English Language Learners

  • : someone who spends a lot of time around a person, place, or group in order to get something (such as fame, money, or power)

Learn More about hanger-on

  1. See words that rhyme with hanger-on Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for hanger-on

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