Synonyms of hang-up

hang-up

noun

ˈhaŋ-ˌəp 

as in demon

a source of persistent emotional distress

low self-esteem is only one of his many hang-ups

Synonyms & Similar Words

• demon
• torment
• terror
• affliction
• bugbear
• bugaboo
• bête noire
• bogey
• ogre
• hobgoblin

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hang-up

The biggest hang-up for those teams reportedly concerns the increase in fuel flow rate. — Jerry Perez, The Drive, 11 June 2026

The way Daniel and Jackie get to know each other feels more authentic than genuine, navigating playful bonding moments as well as their own personal hang-ups. — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 5 June 2026

But a key hang-up in Springfield negotiations has been whether to do away with the tax buying process altogether. — A.d. Quig, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026

Most fans will be happy to know that the fight will count toward both legends' pro records, but this was initially a hang-up for the event. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2026