hang dog

The term "hang dog" originates from the late 1600s and typically describes a dejected or guilty appearance.

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Definition

B2General

(adjective, informal)Appearing ashamed or guilty, often with a downcast expression.

Example

  • He walked into the room with a hang dog look, clearly embarrassed by his mistake.
  • After losing the game, she had a hang dog expression that showed her disappointment.

C1Climbing

(noun, technical)The state of hanging on the rope after falling during a climb.

Example

  • After his fall, he was left in a hang dog until he could regain his footing.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hang dog":

hang offhang one onhang aboutdog aroundhang withhang uponhang tenhang ondog outhang behindhung uphang by the eyelidshung up ondog in the hunthang up