Definition

Describing something that hangs down loosely or swings freely.

Example

The earrings she wore were long and dangly, swaying as she moved her head.

Conversation

I saw your new earrings, they look so cute!

Thanks! I love how they have those dangly parts.

Yeah, they really catch the light nicely.

Exactly! I just couldn't resist getting them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dangly → The word 'dangly' is derived from the verb 'dangle' (originating from the Middle English 'danglen', meaning to hang loosely) with the addition of the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). Thus, 'dangly' describes something characterized by hanging loosely.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'hanging loosely' — that's what 'dangly' means.

Visually Confused Words