hanger-on
|hang/er-on|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈhæŋər ˌɒn/
🇬🇧
/ˈhæŋə ˌɒn/
sycophantic follower
Etymology
Etymology Information
'hanger-on' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hangen,' where 'hang' meant 'to attach or cling.'
Historical Evolution
'hanger-on' changed from the Middle English word 'hangen' and eventually became the modern English word 'hanger-on.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'someone who clings or attaches,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sycophantic follower.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who associates with another person or group in a sycophantic manner, often for personal gain or advantage.
The celebrity was always surrounded by hangers-on hoping to gain some attention.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42