HANGING - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Part of speech: Noun

decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window

Example: the cold castle walls were covered with hangings

Categories: Decoration, Ornament, Ornamentation

Part of speech: Noun

a form of capital punishment; victim is suspended by the neck from a gallows or gibbet until dead

Example: in those days the hanging of criminals was a public entertainment

Categories: Execution, Executing, Capital punishment, Death penalty

The word "hanging" comes from Middle English hangynge. Many other languages have similar words:

hang – A related word in the same word family.

ing – A related word in the same word family.

Old English poetry used alliteration rather than rhyme, influencing how compound words formed.