Pronunciation: [hˈaŋ kɹˈe͡ɪp] (IPA) 
Hang crepe is a phrase that refers to displaying mourning crepe as a sign of respect or remembrance of a deceased person. The spelling of the word "crepe" is pronounced /kreɪp/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "e" at the end of the word is silent, and the vowel sound is long "a," represented by the symbol "ɑ." "Hang" is spelled /hæŋ/, with a short "a" sound and a "ŋ" sound at the end, which represents the "ng" consonant blend.
Hang crepe refers to the act of displaying or suspending black crepe, a type of thin, crinkled or twisted mourning cloth, as a sign of mourning or sorrow. This practice is typically observed in some cultures to symbolize the loss of a loved one, to signal a death in the family, or to mourn the passing of a public figure.
Derived from the historical use of crepe as a fabric associated with funerals and mourning, the term "hang crepe" entails physically affixing or hanging a length or piece of black crepe on the exterior of a building, door, window, or other visible place. This act serves as a visible expression of grief, making it easier for others to identify that a household or organization is in mourning and to show respect by offering condolences or other forms of support.
The tradition of hang crepe is often accompanied by other mourning customs, such as wearing black clothing, displaying images of the deceased, or participating in funeral processions and memorial ceremonies. While the specific customs associated with hang crepe may vary across different cultures and historical periods, the ritual's purpose remains consistent – to publicly acknowledge and convey sorrow and loss.
In summary, "hang crepe" refers to the action of draping or suspending black crepe cloth in a visible manner as a traditional symbol of mourning, serving to communicate the presence of grief and invite condolences.
The phrase "hang crepe" does not have a specific etymology in itself. However, there are two separate terms that make up this phrase, each with their own origins:
1. "Hang": The word "hang" comes from Old English "hangian" which means "to be suspended from above with no or little support from below". It has its roots in Germanic languages and related to words in Dutch, German, and Old Norse.
2. "Crepe": In this context, "crepe" refers to a type of fabric with a crinkled surface. The term itself comes from French "crepe" meaning "crimped" or "frizzled". It originated from the Latin word "crispus" which means "curled".
When combined, "hang crepe" is a phrase typically used metaphorically to describe a solemn and mournful atmosphere.
