hang out to dry

phrase

: to leave stranded in a hopeless or dangerous situation
The company hung us out to dry.

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hang out to dry was in 1966

Rhymes for hang out to dry

See All Rhymes for hang out to dry

Browse Nearby Words

hang out one's shingle
hang out to dry
hangover
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hang out to dry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hang%20out%20to%20dry. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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