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hanger-on

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

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

hanger-on Synonyms

Synonyms
bloodsucker, freeloader, free rider, hanger-on, moocher, parasite, sponge, sponger
Related Words
dependent; deadbeat, idler; flunky (also flunkey or flunkie), henchman, lackey, satellite, stooge, sycophant, toady, yes-man; cheapskate, miser, niggard, piker, scrooge, skinflint, tightwad
Near Antonyms
benefactor, philanthropist, supporter

HANGER-ON Defined for English Language Learners

hanger-on

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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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