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Hanging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hanging

[ˈhæŋɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a room

The act of suspending or causing to be suspended from above, especially so as to allow free movement in the air.

Synonyms

dangling, suspension.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hanging

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
suspension

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
dangling

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

Examples of usage

  • She noticed the hanging lamp in the corner of the room.
  • The hanging plants added a touch of nature to the room.
Context #2 | Noun

execution

A form of capital punishment where a person is suspended by the neck until dead.

Synonyms

execution, lynching.

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Word Description / Examples
hanging

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.
execution

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.
lynching

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.

Examples of usage

  • Hanging used to be a common method of execution in the past.
  • The criminal was sentenced to death by hanging.
Context #3 | Noun

decoration

A decorative piece of fabric or other material that is hung on a wall or in a doorway.

Synonyms

decoration, tapestry.

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Word Description / Examples
hanging

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.
tapestry

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.
decoration

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.

Examples of usage

  • The tapestry was a beautiful hanging in the living room.
  • She admired the intricate design of the hanging.
Context #4 | Verb

suspended

To be suspended or be hanging down from above.

Synonyms

dangling, suspended.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hanging

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.
suspended

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.
dangling

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.

Examples of usage

  • The keys were hanging on a hook by the door.
  • Her hair was hanging loose around her shoulders.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • In visual arts, 'hanging' refers to how artworks are displayed on walls, influencing how viewers engage with them.
  • The 'Hanging Gardens of Babylon' was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, showcasing impressive botanical designs.

Psychology

  • The act of 'hanging' can evoke feelings of anticipation or suspense in storytelling and film, affecting emotional engagement.
  • In psychological terms, being 'hanging on' can symbolize a state of uncertainty or waiting, impacting mental well-being.

Literature

  • Hanging is often used in literature as a metaphor for unresolved conflicts or suspenseful situations.
  • In various literary works, characters who feel 'hanged' symbolize emotional strife or societal pressures.

Technology

  • In programming, a 'hanging' process refers to tasks that remain incomplete or unresponsive, indicating potential bugs.
  • In the world of design, 'hanging text' refers to a style where text extends beyond the margin for emphasis or aesthetics.

Origin of 'hanging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hanging' comes from the Old English 'hangian', which means to suspend or to dwell.
  • In ancient languages, variations of 'hanging' allude to the idea of attachment and suspension.

The word 'hanging' has a long history, with its origins dating back to the Old English period. It is derived from the verb 'hang,' which has Germanic roots. Over the centuries, 'hanging' has evolved to have various meanings, ranging from a method of capital punishment to a form of decoration. The word has been used in literature, art, and everyday language to convey different concepts related to suspension or being suspended. Today, 'hanging' continues to be a versatile word with multiple uses and connotations.

See also: hang, hangings, hangman, hangout, overhang, overhanging.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,322, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.