Hangup Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hangup
[หhรฆลสp ]
Definitions
telephone call
A hangup refers to the act of ending a phone call, often abruptly or unexpectedly. It can also denote a technical issue that interrupts a conversation. In a broader sense, it is sometimes used to describe an emotional or psychological obstacle.
Synonyms
disconnection, interruption, termination.
Examples of usage
- She hung up on me during our argument.
- We experienced a hangup during the video call.
- His hangup about public speaking held him back.
end a phone call
To hang up means to end a phone call by placing the receiver back in its place or pressing the appropriate button. It implies a finality to the conversation.
Synonyms
&&, disconnect, terminate.
Examples of usage
- Please hang up and try calling again.
- He quickly hung up after hearing the bad news.
- Don't hang up until we finish our discussion.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, a hangup often refers to emotional issues or fears that prevent someone from moving forward, frequently linked to past experiences.
- Therapy often addresses hangups to help individuals confront and resolve their emotional barriers, leading to personal growth.
Pop Culture
- The term 'hangup' has been popularized in movies and songs to describe the various emotional complications that characters face in their relationships.
- A notable example is the song 'Hang ups' by The Black Keys, which addresses the struggles of dealing with emotional attachments.
Literature
- In literature, characters often experience hangups that drive the plot, where their unresolved issues create tension and conflict.
- Classic novels frequently use hangups as a narrative device; for instance, pride and prejudice are central hangups in Jane Austenโs works.
Communication
- In the realm of communication, hangups can refer to misunderstandings that arise in conversations, often leading to complications in relationships.
- The concept of a 'hangup' emphasizes the importance of clear communication; addressing issues directly can minimize potential conflicts.
Origin of 'hangup'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hangup' first appeared in American slang in the mid-20th century, referring to an obstacle or something that is unresolved.
- Originally, 'hangup' derived from the phrase 'to hang up', like ending a phone call; it reflects interruptions in communication, both literal and metaphorical.
The word 'hangup' can be traced back to the early 20th century, originating from the concept of hanging up a telephone receiver when a call is finished. The term reflects the physical action of placing the receiver back into its cradle, which was common with older telephone designs. Over time, 'hangup' evolved to include not only the physical act of disconnecting a call but also metaphorically to refer to psychological barriers or personal issues. This figurative usage became prominent in the 1970s, particularly in discussions around mental health and personal relationships, where it described a particular concern or fixation that might inhibit a person's ability to function normally. The usage has since expanded into various contexts, including technology and interpersonal communication.