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Region: General | Usage example: The audience hung on every word of her talk.

Hang on every word

Meaning

Listen attentively.

Usage

Used when describing captivated listeners.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Metaphor for clinging to speech.

Literary reviewers used it to describe spellbound crowds.

Related Idioms

Hang in there

Persevere through tough times.

Hang by a thread

Be in a precarious situation.

Word on the street

What people are saying informally.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.