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.
Under the proposal, UCSD banners would be hung on light poles on several streets near the university. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Sep. 2025 After taking a 10-1 lead against the Twins, who entered play at 66-84, the Yankees had to hang on for dear life. Jackson Roberts, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 That kind of speed gives TRV a much better shot at keeping customers happy—and hanging on to their business. Brett Owens, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 While thin sweaters might fair okay when hung on a hanger due to less gravitational pull, the same can’t be said of the majority of sweaters. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Sep. 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 20 Sep. 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
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