hanger

noun

hang·​er ˈhaŋ-ər 

1

: one that hangs or causes to be hung or hanged

2

: something that hangs, overhangs, or is suspended: such as

a

: a decorative strip of cloth

b

: a small sword formerly used by sailors

c

chiefly British : a small wood on steeply sloping land

3

: a device by which or to which something is hung or hangs: such as

a

: a strap on a sword belt by which a sword or dagger can be suspended

b

: a loop by which a garment is hung up

c

: a device that fits inside or around a garment for hanging from a hook or rod

Examples of hanger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other slides in the carousel showed bouquets of flowers, lacy pink bras on hangers, a model freeing the nipple in a sheer lace top and matching skirt, bras in multiple color ways, and another model lounging in a chocolate-brown bra and underwear set. —Christina Perrier, InStyle, 25 Feb. 2026

Put pre-matched outfits on the same hanger. —Brandi Jones, Health, 25 Feb. 2026

The Brothers to the Rescue hanger at the Opa-locka Airport was packed with loved ones, families and tearful members of the Cuban exile community. —Hank Tester, CBS News, 24 Feb. 2026

Candidates who win an endorsement benefit from the party’s voter outreach through media such as mailers, door hangers and other advertising. —Los Angeles Times, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hanger

• cliff-hanger
• clothes hanger
• coat hanger
• hanger-on
• hanger steak

Rhymes for hanger

• ganger
• hangar

Video

Is It 'Hanger' or 'Hangar'?

How to remember which is which

Kids Definition

hanger

noun

hang·​er ˈhaŋ-ər 

1

: one that hangs

2

: a device by which something hangs

especially : a device for hanging a garment from a hook or rod