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Definition of straphanger

straphanger

/ˈstræpˌhæŋ.ɚ/
strap · hang · er
Plural:straphangers
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straphanger Lexical Profile

straphanger Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A commuter or passenger on a crowded subway train, bus, or streetcar who must stand and hold onto an overhead strap or handrail for support; more generally, any regular user of public transit.

Example

"Thousands of weary straphangers crowded onto the subway platform during the evening rush hour."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for straphanger

• Nearby Words

strangulate
strangulation
strap
straphanger
strapless
strapline
strapped

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in early 20th-century American English from the compound of 'strap' and 'hanger', referring to the overhead leather loops that standing passengers gripped for balance in early subway cars and streetcars.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Straphanger. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/straphanger
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