straphanger

noun

strap·​hang·​er ˈstrap-ˌhaŋ-ər How to pronounce straphanger (audio)
: a standing passenger in a subway, streetcar, bus, or train who clings for support to one of the short straps or similar devices placed along the aisle
straphang intransitive verb

Examples of straphanger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Two other straphangers helped restrain him, and video that captured part of the encounter shows Neely, a Michael Jackson impersonator, slowly go limp then die. Fox News Staff, Fox News, 5 May 2023 The 30-year-old was killed Monday during a confrontation where a straphanger put him in a lethal chokehold aboard a subway car. Emma Seiwell, al, 26 Jan. 2023 The straphanger’s cheek became bloodied. Collier Meyerson, Curbed, 25 Apr. 2022 On the 7 train, which runs from Manhattan to Queens, Benita sits uncomfortably among straphangers wearing surgical masks and KN95s. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Apr. 2023 See all Example Sentences for straphanger 

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of straphanger was in 1896

Dictionary Entries Near straphanger

Cite this Entry

“Straphanger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straphanger. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

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