dangler

Misplaced modifier's name

A dangler is something that hangs loosely or swings freely—an ornament, a loose thread, a keychain attachment.

In grammar, a dangling modifier is a phrase that doesn't clearly connect to what it's meant to modify: Running down the street, the house came into view leaves the runner unidentified.

Informally, a dangler can be a man's penis or testicles.

hanging

pendant

Suspended jewelry ornament

charm · tassel · mobile · windchime · chandelier · lantern · garland · icicle · swing · hammock

grammar

participle

Verb form as adjective

syntax · sentence · phrase · ambiguous · nonrestrictive · dependent · misleading · confusing · incomplete · punctuation

cliffhanger

suspense

Anxious uncertainty about outcomes

tension · sequel · finale · episode · plotline · hook · mystery · intrigue · serialized · binge

climbing

rappel

Controlled rope descent

carabiner · harness · rope · anchor · pitch · crag · ledge · bouldering · mountaineering · ascent

Categories
Opposites
attachment/security

dangleranchor

Secures ships to seabed

fixture · fastener · fixed object · staple · rivet

resolution/completion

danglerresolution

Formal decision or determination

conclusion · closed loop · closure

position/stability

danglerfoundation

Underlying support structure

base · support · pillar · pedestal · buttress

Phrases
Family

dangle, dangling, dangled, dangles, danglers

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G