hanger

Definition

One who hangs, or causes to be hanged; a hangman, paper hanger, etc.

Etymology

From Middle English hanger, haunger, hangere, equivalent to hang + -er. Cognate with West Frisian hinger (“hanger”), Dutch hanger (“hanger”), German Hänger (“hanger”), Henker (“hangman”), Danish hænger (“hanger”), Norwegian henger (“hanger”), Swedish hängare (“hanger”).

Example Sentences

• "With the jumpers and the drowners, McGee, you don't pick up a pattern. That's because a jumper damned near always makes it the first time, and a drowner is usually almost as successful, about the same rate as hangers."
• "[H]is shoulder was graced with a broad buff belt, from whence depended a huge hanger with a hilt like that of a backsword […]."
• "I made an offer to go for my books and chest of clothes, but he swore I should not move out of his sight; and if I did he would cut my throat, at the same time taking his hanger."