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

Margaux’s Altea slingback strikes the perfect balance: the woven leather feels effortlessly cool, while the closed-toe silhouette carries the polish of a ballet flat. —Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 26 June 2025

In Rome or Florence, Italian women elevate them with oversized shirts, lightweight blazers, and slingback loafers. —René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 21 June 2025

While classic beige and black shoes were also spotted on the guests’ feet, colorful slingback pumps and sandals were also on full display. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 21 June 2025

To complete the outfit, a tailored or oversized blazer (our pick is this classic plaid option from the Drop) and chunky slingback heels do the job, and do it well. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 20 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

sling entry 2 + back entry 1

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing slingback

• slingback heels
• slingback pumps

Rhymes for slingback

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