Hanging: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to something that is attached at the top and left to hang down freely. Often used for objects like pictures, clothes, or decorations.

• She hung the picture on the wall
• The clothes are hanging in the closet

Refers to something that is temporarily prevented from continuing or is held in a hanging position. Often used in technical, legal, or formal contexts.

• The suspension of the project was a big setback
• The suspension bridge swayed in the wind

Implies that something is hanging loosely and swinging freely. It suggests a slight, often unsteady motion.

• The earrings were dangling from her ears
• The keys were dangling from his hand

When used twice, it could imply a reiteration for emphasis but generally aligns with the first definition provided. In context, it can denote either legal or illegal hanging deaths.

• The movie vividly illustrated the horror of repeated hangings in the old west.

The act of carrying out a death sentence as a form of legal punishment. This can involve various methods such as lethal injection, electric chair, firing squad, or hanging. It’s a formal and legally sanctioned procedure.

• The prisoner awaited his execution in a maximum-security cell.
• Execution by lethal injection is still practiced in some states.

Refers to an illegal and extrajudicial killing by a mob, often motivated by racial prejudice or community vengeance. It usually carries a strong negative connotation and is associated with historical acts of racial violence.

• The history of the town was marred by a tragic lynching that occurred in the early 1900s.
• Lynching represents a dark period in the history of racial injustice.

Typically used when referring to a piece of art or fabric that is suspended on a wall or from the ceiling, often for display purposes.

• She admired the intricate hanging on the wall.
• The museum showcased an ancient hanging in the main hall.

Specifically refers to a large fabric work of art that is usually woven and is often used to depict a scene or pattern. Tapestries are typically hung on walls.

• The medieval tapestry depicted a famous battle.
• She purchased a beautiful tapestry to hang above the fireplace.

General term used to describe an object or an arrangement used to make a space look more attractive. Can be used for holidays, events, or everyday enhancements.

• They added some holiday decorations to the living room.
• The party decorations were colorful and festive.

Commonly used to describe something that is fixed at one end and free at the other, or to describe an action of covering or displaying. This word can also have a metaphorical use, such as in 'hanging out' with friends.

• The picture is hanging on the wall.
• She spent the day hanging out with her friends.

Typically used to describe something that is temporarily held in the air or halted. It can also refer to a temporary cessation of an activity or service.

• The bridge is suspended over the river.
• The match was suspended due to rain.

Used to describe something that is hanging loosely, often swinging or moving freely. It can also imply a sense of precariousness.

• The keys were dangling from his belt.
• Her earrings were dangling from her ears.