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Dangling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dangling

[หˆdรฆล‹ษกษ™lษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hanging without support

Dangling refers to something hanging or swinging loosely, typically in a way that is not secure or stable. It can also describe something that is left unfinished or unresolved.

Synonyms

hanging, suspended, swinging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dangling

When something is loosely hanging and can easily move with the slightest touch or breeze. Often used to describe objects or parts that are not securely attached and have a sense of instability.

  • The keys were dangling from his pocket
  • A single wire was dangling from the ceiling
hanging

When something is attached to a higher point and drops down. This is a more generic term and can be used to describe anything that is suspended from something.

  • The picture was hanging on the wall
  • The clothes were hanging on the line to dry
swinging

When something is hanging and moving back and forth or side to side. It implies rhythmic movement and can be used to describe actions that are playful or ongoing.

  • The child was happily swinging on the swing set
  • The door was swinging back and forth in the wind
suspended

Used in more formal or technical contexts to describe something that is held up or kept in a position. Often implies a sense of purpose or intentionality behind the action.

  • The bridge was suspended by strong cables
  • The teacher was suspended from her job pending an investigation

Examples of usage

  • The keys were dangling from the lock.
  • She left the thread dangling from the needle.
Context #2 | Verb

to hang loosely

As a verb, dangling means to hang or swing loosely without any support. It can also refer to something that is left incomplete or unresolved.

Synonyms

hanging, suspended, swinging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dangling

Used when something is loosely hanging and can move freely back and forth.

  • The keys were dangling from the belt
  • The earrings were dangling from her ears
hanging

Used when something is fixed at the top point and left free at the bottom. It is more general and doesn't specify movement.

  • A picture was hanging on the wall
  • He noticed a coat hanging on the hook
swinging

Used to describe a back-and-forth motion, often with some energy or regularity.

  • The children were swinging on the playground
  • The door was swinging open in the wind
suspended

Used in more formal or technical contexts, meaning something is fixed in place from above but not in contact with anything below.

  • The bridge was suspended over the river
  • The lamp was suspended from the ceiling

Examples of usage

  • Her feet were dangling over the edge of the cliff.
  • The participles were left dangling in the sentence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, 'dangling' is often used to describe unresolved thoughts or emotions that hang in the mind, leading to anxiety.
  • It can also refer to behaviors like procrastination, where tasks seem to dangle indefinitely without resolution.
  • This phenomenon can impact decision-making, as individuals may feel stuck, resembling an object suspended in air.

Literature

  • In literature, 'dangling' can describe narrative techniques where plot points or character arcs remain suspended, creating suspense.
  • It has been famously used in suspenseful novels to keep readers on the edge by leaving crucial pieces of information dangling.
  • Characters may experience 'dangling' situations, creating tension in stories, easily relatable to the readerโ€™s own experiences.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'dangling' has appeared in popular songs and movies to illustrate carefree attitudes or moments of uncertainty.
  • In fashion, 'dangling' accessories, like earrings or necklaces, often convey a playful or dynamic look.
  • 'Dangling participles' in grammar refers to misplaced modifiers, causing humorous or confusing phrases in everyday speech.

Science

  • In physics, dangling can describe objects suspended by force but not in motion, like a pendulum at rest.
  • In biology, it's used to discuss how certain plants have parts that dangle, like vines, which can adapt to their environment.
  • Researchers have studied how dangling objects influence balance and movement in both humans and animal species.

Origin of 'dangling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English word 'danglen,' which means 'to dangle' or 'to hang loosely.'
  • It has roots that trace back to Old English, where 'dang' referred to a hanging motion.
  • The term evolved through the centuries, maintaining its meaning of hanging or swaying.

The word 'dangling' originated from the verb 'dangle,' which dates back to the late 16th century. It is derived from the Middle Dutch word 'dangelen,' meaning 'to dangle.' The concept of something hanging or swinging loosely has been a part of human language for centuries, reflecting our fascination with movement and instability.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,356, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.