slingback

noun

sling·​back ˈsliŋ-ˌbak 

plural slingbacks

1

: a strap on a shoe that loops around the back of the ankle leaving the heel exposed

a pump with a slingback

a slingback strap

2

: a shoe with a slingback

Selling out twice since launching late-summer, the sparkly slingbacks have become ubiquitous among influencers and fashion heads alike, thanks to their designer look and pocket-friendly price.

—Daisy Lester

Paired with a sleek slingback [=pair of slingbacks] and peplum top, they'll accompany you perfectly to a dinner out on the town.

—Brooke Frischer

—often used before another noun

a slingback style/silhouette

I added a large multicolored pin to hold the scarf and pewter … slingback heels.

—Tammy Duos, quoted in The Advocate (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)

She bought beige slingback pumps with a pink thread running through them, a beige skirt, a crisp pink cotton shirt and pink trench, and it fits with other pieces already in her closet.

—Wendy Navratil

Examples of slingback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Try a blazer and slingback heels for a dinner date; go with a denim shirt and suede boots for drinks with friends. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 5 Sep. 2024

The swimsuit model added on copper Dune slingbacks, gold statement earrings and matching chunky bangles. —Hannah Malach, WWD, 4 Sep. 2024

Lopez also featured a very demure, very cutesy outfit photo showing her in a baby pink spaghetti-strap dress tied with a maroon velvet bow that matched her purse, slingback heels and bold lip. —Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 2 Sep. 2024

Orchid Petaluma Comfort Flats These comfortable slingback flats are the way to go for a dressier occasion, like a destination wedding. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

sling entry 2 + back entry 1

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing slingback

• slingback heels
• slingback pumps