Dangle: meaning, definitions and examples

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dangle

[ˈdæŋɡəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

intransitive

To hang loosely or swing freely, especially with a jerky or swaying motion.

Synonyms

hang, sway, swing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dangle	This word is used when something is hanging loosely and may be moving slightly. It's often used to create an image of something that is not fixed and is free to move. It can sometimes have a playful or casual connotation. The keys dangled from the hook by the door. He dangled his legs off the edge of the dock.
hang	This word is used when something is attached at the top and freely visible below. It is more neutral and commonly used in a variety of situations. They decided to hang the picture above the fireplace. Hang your coat on the rack.
swing	This word is used when something moves back and forth, especially in a wider or more energetic motion. It is often used to describe play, motion on a pendulum, or a change in position or opinion. The children were happy to swing on the playground. The clock's pendulum swung back and forth.
sway	This word is used when something moves gently from side to side. It often suggests a smooth, rhythmic motion and is commonly used to describe trees, people, or objects influenced by wind or other gentle forces. The trees swayed in the soft breeze. She swayed to the music at the party.

Examples of usage

The keys dangled from her fingertips.
His feet dangled off the edge of the cliff.
The pendant dangled from her necklace.
The car keys dangled from the ignition.
The branches dangled in the wind.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A situation in which something hangs or swings loosely.

Synonyms

hang, suspend, swing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dangle	Used when something is hanging loosely and swaying, often implying a sense of precariousness or danger. The keys dangled from the edge of the table. She dangled her feet over the edge of the pier.
hang	Commonly used for general hanging situations where something is fastened at the top and allowed to move freely at the bottom. They decided to hang the picture above the fireplace. He hung his coat on the hook.
swing	Used when an object moves back and forth or side to side while hanging from a point of suspension. The kids loved to swing on the playground. The pendulum swung rhythmically.
suspend	Implies something is temporarily held up or supported, often in a situation where it is not touching the ground or floor. Mostly used in more formal contexts. The lamp was suspended from the ceiling. The meeting was suspended until further notice.

Examples of usage

The spider was suspended from a dangle of silk.
She couldn't reach the book on the shelf due to its dangle.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word traces back to the Middle English term 'danglen,' which means 'to dangle, hang down.'
It likely has roots in the Old Norse word 'danga,' meaning 'to hang down or drop'.
The term has been used in English since the 15th century and has kept a similar meaning over time.

Art

In contemporary art, hanging sculptures often dangle to create movement, making the pieces dynamic.
Many artists utilize the concept of dangling in installations to engage viewers’ emotions and thoughts.
The act of dangling in art can symbolize uncertainty or impermanence, inviting contemplation.

Physics

An object that dangles experiences gravitational pull, which can be explained through basic physics principles.
When something dangles, it can swing back and forth, demonstrating principles of motion influenced by gravity.
Toys and decorations are often designed to dangle, utilizing balance and tension to enhance their interaction with the viewer.

Psychology

The act of dangling can represent temptation; something out of reach can create desire.
In behavioral psychology, the concept of dangling rewards can motivate individuals to strive for achievements.
Visual cues, like a dangling object, can draw attention and stimulate curiosity in viewers.

Literature

Writers often use dangling metaphors to create imagery that captures attention, enriching narrative styles.
In poetry, dangling phrases can evoke emotions and create a sense of longing or anticipation.
The imagery of dangling elements is prevalent in folklore, representing both hope and danger.

Translations

Translations of the word "dangle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pendurar

🇮🇳 लटकना

🇩🇪 hängen

🇮🇩 menggantung

🇺🇦 звисати

🇵🇱 wisieć

🇯🇵 ぶら下がる

🇫🇷 pendre

🇪🇸 colgar

🇹🇷 sarkmak

🇰🇷 매달리다

🇸🇦 يتدلى

🇨🇿 viset

🇸🇰 visieť

🇨🇳 悬挂

🇸🇮 viseti

🇮🇸 hanga

🇰🇿 іліну

🇬🇪 დაკიდება

🇦🇿 asılmaq

🇲🇽 colgar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,905, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
27902 empathize
27903 foment
27904 coadjutor
27905 dangle
27906 disciplinarian
27907 opprobrium
27908 idyll
...