Definition

Noun: 1. The act of throwing or hurling something with a forceful, sweeping, or circular motion, often from the side or with an underhand swing. This action resembles the use of a traditional sling weapon, where an object is propelled in a wide arc.

Usage

• The term describes a specific manner of throwing, characterized by a broad, often loose, swinging motion of the arm.
• It is frequently used to describe casual, forceful, or imprecise throws, as opposed to a careful, overhand pitch.

Examples

• The angry protester was slinging rocks at the building. (This describes the forceful, hurling action.)
• He loaded the luggage into the truck by slinging the bags onto the bed. (This emphasizes the sweeping, underhand motion.)
• The child was slinging mud everywhere while playing in the garden. (This illustrates a casual, often messy, throwing action.)

Advanced Usage

• "Slinging mud": This is an idiom meaning to make malicious or insulting accusations against someone, especially in politics.
  • Example: The debate devolved into the candidates just slinging mud at each other.
• "Slinging hash": An informal idiom meaning to work as a waiter or waitress, especially in a diner, serving food quickly.
  • Example: He worked his way through college by slinging hash at a 24-hour diner.

Variants and Related Words

• Sling (verb): To throw or hurl with a sweeping motion. (e.g., )
• Sling (noun): A device, typically a strap or loop, for lifting or carrying something; or a simple weapon for hurling stones.
• Slinger (noun): A person who throws or hurls something in this manner.

Synonyms

• Hurling
• Flinging
• Chucking (informal)
• Tossing (though "tossing" is often lighter)

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Sling out: To throw something out forcefully or dismissively.
  • Example: He was so angry he just slung out the old papers.
• Sling around: To throw or move something around carelessly or with force.
  • Example: Stop slinging around your wet towel!

Related Idioms

• Sling your hook (British, informal): An impolite way of telling someone to go away.
  • Example: He was causing trouble, so the barman told him to sling his hook.

Noun

1. throwing with a wide motion (as if with a sling)