slingback

noun

sling·​back ˈsliŋ-ˌbak 

plural slingbacks

1

: a strap on a shoe that loops around the back of the ankle leaving the heel exposed

a pump with a slingback

a slingback strap

2

: a shoe with a slingback

Selling out twice since launching late-summer, the sparkly slingbacks have become ubiquitous among influencers and fashion heads alike, thanks to their designer look and pocket-friendly price.

—Daisy Lester

Paired with a sleek slingback [=pair of slingbacks] and peplum top, they'll accompany you perfectly to a dinner out on the town.

—Brooke Frischer

—often used before another noun

a slingback style/silhouette

I added a large multicolored pin to hold the scarf and pewter … slingback heels.

—Tammy Duos, quoted in The Advocate (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)

She bought beige slingback pumps with a pink thread running through them, a beige skirt, a crisp pink cotton shirt and pink trench, and it fits with other pieces already in her closet.

—Wendy Navratil

Examples of slingback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Styling tip: To elevate these barrel jeans for the office, pair them with a knit top and a slingback heel in brown or burgundy—two of the season’s trendiest shoe colors. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2026

The star dialed up the sparkle with a pair of pointed-toe slingback stilettos that were completely encrusted in crystals. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 8 Apr. 2026

These flats go beyond the basic Mary Jane strap and incorporate an equally on-trend slingback for an elegant, feminine touch your closet has been waiting for. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 5 Apr. 2026

The slingback design of these shoes is ideal for warm spring weather (to avoid sweaty feet), and each has an adjustable strap to keep your feet secure. —Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 5 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

sling entry 2 + back entry 1

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for slingback

• aback
• anzac
• attack
• backpack
• backtrack
• bareback
• blackjack
• brownback
• buyback
• callback
• cognac
• comeback