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

: hold on sense 2

I'll get the answer if you can hang on.

see also:

hang on to

Examples of hang on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Leaving the liner hanging on the shower rod and curtain rings, spray the solution generously all over the shower curtain liner. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2026

Breslow then decided to hang on to all five of his outfielders, instead of trading one or two to address another position of need. —Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Whatever investors and analysts might think of airlines’ attempt to hang on to fare hikes even if fuel prices fall, the idea has generated public criticism. —Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026

Shane van Gisbergen has now also tumbled out of a playoff spot despite trying admirably to hang on for a bit, and rookie Connor Zilisch, a future superstar, is mired at 33rd in the standings. —Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1719, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hang on

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon

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