hang over
Idioms-
Remain suspended or unsettled, as in They plan to let the vote hang over until the next session . This usage alludes to something suspended or floating in the air. [c. 1200]
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Also, hang over one's head . Threaten or be imminent, as in I've got that test hanging over me , or A stiff fine is hanging over his head . [Mid-1500s] Also see hang by a thread .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Confidence among U.S. home builders barely picked up in August as high mortgage rates, rising construction costs and economic uncertainty continue to hang over the housing market.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
The fallout will hang over the decider in Nottingham, with England desperate for a series win following their awful Ashes tour.
From BBC ● Jun. 21, 2026
A pair of embarrassing videos continue to hang over her campaign.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 11, 2026
In one corner, Biles and Owens have added a potted plant to inject some greenery into the room, while floor-to-ceiling curtains hang over the sliding walls of glass.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 24, 2026
"I'm building a butterfly mobile to hang over my bed," Bess said, her blue eyes flashing.
From "Sleepover Sleuths: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #1" by Carolyn Keene
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
