dangle
UK: ˈdæŋ.ɡəl | US: ˈdæŋ.ɡəl
vi. to hang or swing loosely
vt. to cause something to hang or swing loosely
vt. to offer something enticingly to someone (figurative)
"Dangle" emerged in the late 16th century, possibly from Scandinavian roots (compare Danish "dangle," Swedish "dangla"). The imitative quality of "dang" mimics the visual or auditory effect of loose movement, while the "-le" suffix reinforces the ongoing nature of the action. The word’s playful sound mirrors its meaning, making it vivid and intuitive.
The keys dangle from a hook by the door.
She dangled her feet in the cool water.
The salesman dangled a discount in front of the hesitant buyer.
A single earring dangled from her left ear.
The cat batted at the string dangling from the table.