hanging

Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective, Verb (Present Participle of "hang")

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˈhæŋɪŋ/

Definitions

1. (Noun) The act of suspending something from above so that it remains free to move.
2. (Noun) Execution by suspending a person by the neck until dead.
3. (Adjective) Suspended in the air or attached from above.
4. (Verb) The act of causing something to be suspended.

Usage Examples

• "The picture needs hanging on the wall properly."
• "Public hangings were common in medieval times."
• "The hanging lamp added elegance to the room."

Etymology

Derived from Old English "hangian" (to be suspended) and "hon" (to hang something).

Synonyms

• Suspension
• Dangling
• Execution (for capital punishment context)

Antonyms

• Standing
• Support
• Release

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

UK: /ˈhæŋɪŋ/

US: /ˈhæŋɪŋ/

Australia: /ˈhæŋɪŋ/ (minor variation in vowel length)

Historical Usage

Hanging has been a method of execution since ancient times, used by many civilizations, including the Romans and the British legal system.

Cultural Nuances

While hanging as a punishment is now largely abolished, the term is still used metaphorically, such as "hanging in the balance" or "hanging on by a thread."

More Information

The concept of hanging extends beyond execution to architecture, design, and even emotions. Hanging gardens were a marvel of ancient Babylon, while in modern times, "hanging out" signifies casual social interactions. The word has evolved to convey multiple meanings, making it an essential term in various contexts.