straphanger

[ strap-hang-er ]

noun

1. a passenger who stands in a crowded bus or subway train and holds onto a strap or other support suspended from above.
2. any user of such public transportation.

straphanger

/ ˈstræpˌhæŋə /

noun

1. informal.
   a passenger in a bus, train, etc, who has to travel standing, esp by holding on to a strap

Derived Forms

• ˈstrapˌhanging, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of straphanger¹

First recorded in 1900–05; strap + hanger

Example Sentences

Polite Straphanger (to lady who has been standing on his toes for a considerable time).

From Project Gutenberg

Straphanger (in first-class compartment, to first-class passenger).

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• driver
• passenger
• traveler