Understanding the Difference Between Hangar and Hanger

The Difference Between “Hangar” and “Hanger”

History of the Words

The word “hangar” comes from the French word “hangar,” which means “shed” or “shelter.” It is used since around the 1850s to talk about a place where airplanes are kept.

The word “hanger” comes from the Middle English word “hang, hongen,” which is about something that holds or hangs something. It has been used for a long time to talk about things that hold clothes.

How to Use the Words

Hangar is a noun. It means a large building where people keep airplanes.

Hanger is a noun. It means something used to hold clothes like a shirt or dress in a closet.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember that hangAr has an “A” for “Airplane,” while hangEr has an “E” for “Earrings,” which is also something hung, just like clothes.

Examples of “Hangar”

• The airplane is in the hangar.
• The new hangar is very big and strong.
• Pilots take the planes out of the hangar to fly.
• The hangar can hold five large airplanes.
• It is important to close the hangar doors at night.

Examples of “Hanger”

• I need a hanger for my shirt.
• The coat fell off the hanger.
• There are many hangers in the closet.
• I prefer wooden hangers over plastic hangers.
• Can you pass me a hanger for my dress?

Summary

To remember the difference: A hangAr is for airplanes, while a hangEr is for hanging everything else like clothes. “Hangar” is used for buildings where planes are stored, and “hanger” is used for items that hold clothes in a closet.