If you have ever been curious about the english language correct past tense of hang, this article will clear that up plus give you a look into the history of the word, the definition, and everything else you could want to learn about the word.
Your writing, at its best
Compose bold, clear, mistake-free, writing with Grammarly's AI-powered writing assistant
a hesitation or slackening in motion or in a course
a marked hang of the oar in the air before it dipped
give a hang or care a hang
to be the least bit concerned or worried
She doesn’t give a hang whether she wins or not.
How do you Conjugate Hang?
Here are the other english grammar conjugations of the word hang:
Base Form (Infinitive)
Hang
Simple Past Tense Form
Hung/ Hanged
Past Participle of Hang
Hung/ Hanged
3rd Person Singular
Hangs
Present Participle/ Present Tense
Hanging
Hang vrs. Hung: A Usage Guide
Is it hang or hung? Both english verbs are considered the standard in modern english but hanged is considered the most appropriate use in official executions for example: “ he/she was to be hanged (as a hangman), cut down while still alive … and his bowels torn out — Louis Allen.” This is where it gets tricky because hung is also frequently used in the same context for example: “ gave orders that she should be hung — Peter Quennell.” For informal executions, use hung.
The History and Origin of the Word
Verb-
The word hang comes from the Proto-Germanic word hanganan from the PIE root konk, meaning to hang. The term was originally used exclusively for executions, originally crucifixion, until the 1500s. The phrase to hang back meaning reluctant to proceed was used. In the 1700s the term hang fire was used to describe guns that were slow to fire due to mechanical malfunction. Hang around became popular in the 1800s meaning to idle or loiter. In the 1900s the term let it all hang out became popular, meaning to relax.
Noun-
In the 1500s, hang meant a sling. In the 1700s, this evolved into the way clothe hangs, for example, a curtain. To get the hang of something, meaning to become capable, was a common phrase in the 1800s, but its origin is unknown. It is thought to come from the English word hank, meaning a habit.
Synonyms for Hang
Dangle- to hang loosely and usually so as to be able to swing freely
Next time you need to write the word hang, you will be well prepared for everything you need to know what it is and how to use it efficiently. You should feel confident with the different conjugations, the history of the word, and the definition.
Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.