hang back

verb

hung back; hanging back; hangs back

Synonyms of hang back next

intransitive verb

: to drag behind others

: to be reluctant

Examples of hang back in a Sentence

even though the young mother wanted the job, she still hung back because she wasn't sure if she should spend time away from her family

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

For over two years, capital has been hanging back – and that capital must move because it is held in closed-end funds, with a typical 10-year lifespan. —

Control Risks, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 The kids decide to hang back at the restaurant for the night when Bob buys coveted candy (Sour Sack Babies), and the place gets overrun with desperate trick-or-treaters. —

Lillian Brown, Vulture, 29 Oct. 2024 For many global companies and banks, hanging back will be the easiest and safest course of action. —

Eric Lorber, Foreign Affairs, 15 July 2015 Instead, many hide their hearing loss by nodding along in conversation, by hanging back at social gatherings, by staying home. —

Charley Locke, The Atlantic, 19 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hang back