hangover

noun

hang·​over ˈhaŋ-ˌō-vər 

1

: something (such as a surviving custom) that remains from what is past

2

a

: disagreeable physical effects following heavy consumption of alcohol or the use of drugs

b

: a letdown following great excitement or excess

Did you know?

The effects of hangovers have been hanging around for ages. The word itself, however, has only been fermenting since the late 19th century. Originally, hangover described someone or something that remained or simply survived, but it was later distilled into common use as a word for the effects of overconsumption of alcohol or drugs. These days, hangover can also suggest an emotional letdown or an undesirable prolongation of notes or sounds from a loudspeaker.

Examples of hangover in a Sentence

She woke up with a hangover.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, a hangover is about to hit the industry as tariffs threaten to stunt growth, a leading industry group warned. —Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 24 Apr. 2025

Pickle juice may help with muscle cramps, upset stomachs, and hangovers. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2025

Risk-aversion may be a lingering hangover effect from the pandemic. —Allie Volpe, Vox, 3 Apr. 2025

An extensive menu of IV therapies can tackle weight loss, hangovers and longevity. —Sherrie Nachman, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hangover

• carryover
• changeover
• crossover
• cutover
• flashover
• holdover
• layover
• leftover
• makeover
• moreover
• passover
• pullover

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Kids Definition

hangover

noun

hang·​over ˈhaŋ-ˌō-vər 

1

: something (as a surviving custom) that remains from what is past

2

: a sick uncomfortable state that comes from drinking too many drinks of alcoholic beverage

Medical Definition

hangover

noun

hang·​over -ˌō-vər 

: disagreeable physical effects (as headache or nausea) following heavy consumption of alcohol or the use of drugs