hang
UK: hæŋ | US: hæŋ
v. to suspend or attach something from above without support from below
v. to remain in the air or cling to something
v. to execute someone by suspending them by the neck (historical/legal)
v. to linger or remain unresolved (e.g., "a question hangs in the air")
The word "hang" traces back to Old English hōn, derived from Proto-Germanic hanhan, meaning "to suspend." It retains its core sense of suspension across centuries, branching into metaphorical uses (e.g., lingering uncertainty) and grim historical applications (execution by hanging). The simplicity of its monosyllabic form reflects its ancient Germanic roots, unchanged by Latin or Greek influences.
She decided to hang the painting above the fireplace.
The fog hangs low over the valley in the morning.
In the past, criminals were often hanged for serious offenses.
A tense silence hung in the room after the argument.
His coat hung loosely on the back of the chair.