hang on

verb

hung on; hanging on; hangs on

intransitive verb

1
: to keep hold : hold on to something
2
: to persist tenaciously
a cold that hung on all spring
3
Phrases
hang on to
: to hold, grip, or keep tenaciously

Examples of hang on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What to know Still, Trump is hanging on to the vast bulk of his voters. Gary Langer, ABC News, 26 Apr. 2025 For now, the company is trying to hang on through the peak summer season without raising prices or shifting production. Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025 Colored pastel works and paintings on burlap hang on the textured walls, while ceramics line the pyramid. Emily Wilson, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025 Leading 2-1 in the second period, Minnesota appeared to be just hanging on as Vegas had the puck and the momentum. Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hang on

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1719, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hang on was circa 1719

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hang on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hang%20on. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

hang on

verb
1
: to keep hold or possession especially tightly
hang on or you'll fall
hang on to your money
2
: to continue stubbornly
a cold that hung on all spring

More from Merriam-Webster on hang on

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!