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.
Brands that can hang on and leverage the breakneck speed at which Gen Z navigates platforms and tools have the opportunity to build affinity and engagement. Nohar Zmora, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024 They were routinely dismissed; many who hung on had to work in the closet. Tracy Wilkinson, Los Angeles Times, 19 Dec. 2024 The latter can be hung on the back or side of the box to create a basin for use with the water canister spout. New Atlas, 17 Dec. 2024 But believers hung on and were rewarded when the Chicago Mercantile Exchange launched bitcoin futures at the end of 2017, opening the door to new investors. Jill Schlesinger, The Mercury News, 16 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near hang on

Cite this Entry

“Hang on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hang%20on. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

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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