Pronunciation: /hæŋ ɒn/

Definitions of hang on

verb to wait or hold on; to continue to hold onto something

Example Sentences

A1 Hang on to the railing while walking down the stairs.

A2 Hang on tight to the handlebars when riding a bike.

B1 Hang on a minute, I need to grab my keys before we leave.

B2 Hang on to your hat, it's going to be a bumpy ride.

C1 Hang on to your dreams, no matter what obstacles come your way.

C2 Hang on for dear life as the roller coaster takes a sharp turn.

adverb used to ask someone to wait or stop for a moment

Example Sentences

A1 Hang on, I need to tie my shoe before we go.

A2 Hang on a minute, I'm almost finished with this task.

B1 Can you hang on for a moment while I find the information you need?

B2 Hang on a second, I just need to grab my keys before we leave.

C1 I'll need you to hang on for a few minutes while I finish this important call.

C2 Please hang on a moment, I'm in the middle of an important discussion.

Examples of hang on in a Sentence

formal Please hang on for a moment while I transfer your call to the appropriate department.

informal Hang on a sec, I'll be right back with your order.

slang Hang on, dude, I'm almost done with this game.

figurative Sometimes we just need to hang on and trust that things will get better eventually.

Grammatical Forms of hang on

past tense

hung on

plural

hang on

comparative

hangs on more often

superlative

hangs on the most

present tense

hang on

future tense

will hang on

perfect tense

have hung on

continuous tense

is hanging on

singular

hangs on

positive degree

hang on tightly

infinitive

to hang on

gerund

hanging on

participle

hung on

Origin and Evolution of hang on

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The phrase 'hang on' originated from the Old English word 'hangian' meaning to cling or hold on.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the phrase 'hang on' has evolved to also mean to wait or persevere in a difficult situation.