hangout

[hang-out]

noun

Informal.

1. a place where people gather for casual socializing or recreation.

   The pub is an ultracasual hangout, mostly frequented by undergraduates from the local university.

2. a place that a person frequently visits, especially for socializing or recreation.

   The record store was one of my favorite neighborhood hangouts when I was a kid.

verb phrase

1. to lean or be suspended through an opening.

   If you hang out the window that far, you're likely to fall right out!

2. to suspend in open view; display.

   Her family hangs out the flag every day, not just on holidays.

3. Informal.,  to frequent a particular place, especially in one's free time.

   We’ve all got friends who would rather hang out at a bookstore with a glass of wine than go clubbing.

4. Informal.,  to linger or loiter somewhere.

   We’ve got nothing better to do, so we’ll probably just hang out.

5. Informal.,  to spend time with someone.

   I’d love the chance to hang out with some like-minded folks.

6. Informal.,  to wait, especially briefly.

   Hang out a minute while I get my backpack.

7. Slang.,  to calm down.

   Hang out, Mom, I'm OK.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hangout¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; noun use of verb phrase hang out

Example Sentences

It’s those small gestures during their hangouts — like Dennis refraining from correcting Roman’s misuse of idioms — that forge a special if imbalanced dynamic as they try to fill their respective voids.

From Los Angeles Times

The pair had several hangouts together before a job even entered the equation.

From Los Angeles Times

But Sunday is kind of fun because there are more people there, and it’s a great local hangout.

From Los Angeles Times

While he was still a professional mixed martial artist, Young — who owns and teaches classes at Fight Academy Pasadena — organized a casual, potluck-style hangout for car-loving pals outside one of his matches.

From Los Angeles Times

The Grand Charcuterie Celebration is practically designed for a hazy hangout with friends: think artisan cheeses, cured meats, and all the charcuterie essentials.

From Salon

Related Words

• haunt 
• watering hole