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.
Inter Miami dominated possession 59 percent to 41 percent in the first half, Palmeiras took 10 shots, but just one on goal, and Miami hung on to a 1-0 lead at intermission. Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 24 June 2025 Footage surfaced of the Virginia legends hanging on a rooftop in Paris rapping along to the record in front of a crowd of people. Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 24 June 2025 In the lobby of the former Pulse nightclub, a poster still hangs on the wall advertising a Dominican Pride party set for June 18. Skyler Swisher, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 June 2025 Now 38, Giroud has been impressed by how Enzo Maresca’s ultra-youthful side performed this past season, hanging on in the hunt for a Champions League spot and eventually pouncing on the fourth position as others, Nottingham Forest included, faltered at the end. Martin Rogers, New York Times, 16 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hang on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hang%20on. Accessed 1 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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