WordGarden.iosling
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /slˈɪŋ/
US
- /ˈslɪŋ/
Meanings
Noun
a cloth support used to hold up an injured arm
a simple weapon made of cords for throwing stones or similar projectiles
Verb
to throw or hurl something with force or a loose swinging motion
to put or hang something loosely over a shoulder or around the body
to sell or serve something casually or in large amounts
Beyond the definition
A sling can mean throwing something with a quick, loose motion, or using a simple strap weapon to send a stone flying—like David facing Goliath. But it also describes something that supports or holds, such as a broken arm resting in a sling. It can also be a strap used for carrying gear, like a rifle sling or a bag worn across the body.
The word comes from an Old English word meaning "to throw," so the idea of motion runs through many of its uses. You might sling mud at an opponent during a heated argument, or casually sling a bag over your shoulder as you head out the door. In other cases, it is about support rather than motion, helping hold an injured arm steady or lift a heavy object safely.
The word "sling" is surprisingly versatile, with several meanings linked by the ideas of throwing, supporting, or hanging something loosely. One of its oldest meanings is a simple weapon made from a strap or pouch used to throw a stone or other small object. Unlike a Y-shaped slingshot, a traditional sling works by swinging the projectile and releasing it at the right moment. As a verb, to sling often suggests a quick, easy, or sometimes careless motion, as in slinging a bag onto a chair, slinging a jacket over one shoulder, or slinging a rope over a branch.
However, "sling" also refers to a medical support used for holding an injured arm or shoulder. In this context, it's about providing stability and immobilization: "His arm was in a sling for six weeks after the fall."
Beyond these uses, a "sling" can be a strap or band used to carry something, such as a rifle sling, a camera sling, or a bag worn across the body. It is also an important industrial term; in construction and shipping, a sling is a loop of rope, webbing, or chain used for hoisting and lifting heavy loads with a crane.
Historically, slings were useful in both warfare and daily work. Today, the word still brings together movement and support. So, whether you're throwing something with force, carrying something with a strap, supporting an injury, or lifting cargo, "sling" describes a practical way of moving or holding something.
Examples
- 1
Bag carrying
She slung her backpack over one shoulder and ran for the bus.
- 2
Casual placement
He slung his jacket onto the sofa and went straight to the kitchen.
- 3
Friendly gesture
At the station, my brother slung an arm around me and laughed.
- 4
Medical support
After the accident, her right arm was in a sling for three weeks.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Baby carrier
She carried the baby in a sling while she made lunch.
- 6
Public attacks
During the campaign, both sides kept slinging mud at each other online.
- Phrasesling mud
attack someone with nasty or unfair public comments
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- slingnounverb
Forms
- slungpast tensepast participleverbnoun
- slinging-ing formverbnoun
- slingspluralnounverb