sling 1 of 2

sling

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verb (2)

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sling distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of sling are cast, fling, hurl, pitch, throw, and toss. While all these words mean "to cause to move swiftly through space by a propulsive movement or a propelling force," sling stresses either the use of whirling momentum in throwing or directness of aim.

slung the bag over his shoulder

When is cast a more appropriate choice than sling?

The synonyms cast and sling are sometimes interchangeable, but cast usually implies lightness in the thing thrown and sometimes a scattering.

cast it to the winds

When might fling be a better fit than sling?

While in some cases nearly identical to sling, fling stresses a violent throwing.

flung the ring back in his face

When would hurl be a good substitute for sling?

Although the words hurl and sling have much in common, hurl implies power as in throwing a massive weight.

hurled himself at the intruder

Where would pitch be a reasonable alternative to sling?

While the synonyms pitch and sling are close in meaning, pitch suggests throwing carefully at a target.

pitch horseshoes

When can throw be used instead of sling?

The words throw and sling are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, throw is general and interchangeable with the other terms but may specifically imply a distinctive motion with bent arm.

can throw a fastball and a curve

When could toss be used to replace sling?

The meanings of toss and sling largely overlap; however, toss suggests a light or careless or aimless throwing and may imply an upward motion.

tossed the coat on the bed

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of sling
Verb
In recent times, everyone from Hailey Bieber to Alexa Chung, Dianna Agron, and Sarah Jessica Parker have slung the open top canvas top over their shoulders. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 2 Nov. 2025 The pebbled leather bag features canvas handles and an adjustable, detachable strap that can be slung over your shoulder. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2025 Saturday’s block party-style Main Event takes over downtown Highlands with chefs slinging snacks and musicians taking the stage before festivalgoers head to Flat Mountain Farm for an evening of dancing, signature cocktails, and light bites. Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2025 At its height in 2017, there were 150 Farm Bank deli counters slinging cheese that supposedly came from the company’s farms. Moisés Naím, Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sling

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Cite this Entry

“Sling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sling. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

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