dangle

[ˈdæŋ.ɡəl]

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dangling - dangle

A dangle is when something hangs loosely or flails about.

When we say that something dangles, it usually means it's hanging freely, without being supported. For example, a necklace might dangle from your neck if it isn't clasped properly. If you're cooking and forget to secure the handle of a pot, it can start to dangle precariously over the edge of the counter. You might even hear someone say that their pants are danging (meaning hanging down) because they need to be shortened. In some cases, people use the word 'dangle' when talking about something or someone that's on shaky ground - like a situation where you're trying not to get caught doing something you shouldn't be doing.

How common is "dangle"?

Word dangle is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

noun

An agent of one intelligence agency or group who pretends to be interested in defecting or turning to another intelligence agency or group.
The action of dangling; a series of complex stick tricks and fakes in order to defeat the defender in style.
Example: That was a sick dangle for a great goal!
A dangling ornament or decoration.

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verb

To hang loosely with the ability to swing.
Example: His feet would dangle in the water.
The action of performing a move or deke with the puck in order to get past a defender or goalie; perhaps because of the resemblance to dangling the puck on a string.
Example: He dangled around three players and the goalie to score.
To hang or trail something loosely.
Example: I like to sit on the edge and dangle my feet in the water.
To trail or follow around.
Of a patient: to be positioned with the legs hanging over the edge of the bed.
To position (a patient) in this way.

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Real examples of "dangling" in context

Macaulay Culkin on His Kids Not Knowing He’s Kevin in Home Alone, Joe Pesci Biting Him & Not Driving

Interview

So I'm dangling there.

3:31