1. verb To physically hold something. Hang on tight so that you don't fall.

2. To suspend something from some surface or thing. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "hang" and "on." We always hang our stockings on the mantle on Christmas Eve.

3. To wait. Often used as an imperative. Hang on, I can't find my keys in my bag. A: "There's a customer waiting." B: "She'll just have to hang on a minute."

4. To try to assign responsibility for something to someone. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "hang" and "on." Don't hang our lateness on me—I was actually ready on time!

5. To persist. I don't know how much longer I can hang on without a job.

6. To depend on someone or something. Whether or not I enjoy this weekend hangs on what the doctor tells me when he calls.

7. To keep something for someone. Can you hang on to my mail until I'm back in town?

8. To wait on the phone. Please hang on while I transfer your call.