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
Finally, imagine tucking your anxiety into a cozy box and carrying it gently in a small bag slung over your shoulder, wrote Beck. Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 30 May 2025 Quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrived in luxury street wear, a $4,600 Dior calfskin leather backpack slung over one shoulder. Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2025 Royals’ pitcher Danny Jackson, a 1985 World Series winner, has slung the perforated ball from the mound. Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 25 June 2025 Dalton slinging the ball at the man offered a bit of levity to the night-long pile, as fans laughed and cheered. Dalton, who has played at Bank of America Stadium over the past two seasons, said the turnout over the weekend was a reminder that Charlotte has a deep sports fan base. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 8 June 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 21 Jul. 2025.

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