hang-up
noun
a preoccupation, fixation, or psychological block; complex.
hangup
-
a variation of
hang-up.
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.
Consider the reported hangup here: Belichick’s association with Spygate, which involved illegal sign-stealing and led to a mammoth $500,000 NFL fine for the coach.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 28, 2026
The hangup points to a broader limitation on the increasingly popular option of automated traffic enforcement.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 21, 2023
David Smith, professor of economics at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, said he suspects that issues related to AI are likely “the primary hangup at this point.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2023
Beyond my aforementioned laziness, I chalked this up to a long-held, inexplicable hangup about welcoming new kitchen gadgetry into the fold.
From Salon ● Nov. 13, 2022
Jeanine was talking about something important when Tobias and I came into her office, important enough to hangup on someone.
From "Divergent" by Veronica Roth
