Definition

Verb (transitive) 1. To kill by hanging: To execute someone or something by suspending them with a rope around the neck. 2. To add or connect as if on a string: To link items or ideas together in a sequence. (Note: This meaning is less common for the phrasal verb form and is often expressed as "string together.")

Usage and Examples

• The angry mob threatened to string up the captured outlaw.
• In the old tale, the pirates vowed to string up the traitor from the yardarm.
• (Less common usage): The director tried to string up a series of weak scenes into a coherent act.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• "String up" is a phrasal verb that is almost always used in informal or figurative contexts related to execution by hanging, often implying vigilante justice or summary punishment without a formal trial.
• It carries a strong and violent connotation.
• The separable phrasal verb can take an object between "string" and "up":

Variants and Related Words

• String (verb): To thread on or as if on a string (e.g., ).
• String together (phrasal verb): To combine or connect things in a sequence (e.g., ). This is the more common form for the non-violent meaning.
• Hang (verb): The standard verb for execution by suspension from the neck.

Synonyms

• Hang
• Execute by hanging
• Lynch

Antonyms

• Pardon
• Release
• Acquit

Related Phrasal Verbs

• String along: To deceive someone over a period of time.
  • He strung her along with false promises of marriage.
• String out: To prolong or extend.
  • They strung out the meeting for another hour.

Idioms and Collocations

• String 'em up!: An aggressive cry or demand for someone to be hanged, typically by a crowd.
  • The crowd shouted, "String 'em up!" as the prisoner was led past.
• Fit to be strung up: Deserving of being hanged.
  • After that betrayal, he's fit to be strung up.

Verb

1. add as if on a string
   • string these ideas together
   • string up these songs and you'll have a musical
2. kill by hanging
   • The murderer was hanged on Friday