Pronunciation: [hˈaŋ fˈa͡ɪ͡ə] (IPA) 
Hang fire is an idiom that means to hesitate or delay. Its pronunciation is represented using IPA phonetic transcription as [hæŋˈfaɪər]. The "h" is represented as /h/, the "a" as /æ/, the "ng" as /ŋ/, and the "f" as /f/. The "i" is represented as /ɪ/, and the "r" as /r/. It is important to note that although the word "hang" is spelled with an "a," it is pronounced with a short "e" sound, represented in IPA as /æ/.
Hang fire is a phrase that originated from the context of firearms and ammunition. In literal terms, it refers to a situation where a firearm cartridge fails to ignite or discharge immediately after the trigger has been pulled. When a gun hangs fire, there is a delay between the pulling of the trigger and the firing of the bullet, leaving the operator uncertain about whether the gun will eventually go off or not.
However, the term "hang fire" has also transcended its literal meaning and has been adopted in figurative or idiomatic usage. In this figurative sense, hang fire refers to an action or event that is delayed or postponed, often causing uncertain or conflicting outcomes or expectations. It suggests the idea of being in a state of suspense or delayed action, resembling the tense and uncertain moments experienced when a firearm fails to fire immediately.
Hang fire can be used to describe situations that have been put on hold or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the postponement of a decision, the suspension of an action, or the delay in the completion of a task. It implies a state of being in limbo or awaiting a resolution, often creating anxiety or tension due to the uncertain outcome. Hang fire is synonymous with expressions like "wait and see," "hold off," or "be put on hold."
The phrase "hang fire" originated in the 17th century and has its roots in the firearms industry. It is derived from the combination of "hang" and "fire", which are both words used in relation to the firing of a gun.
In early firearms, such as flintlock muskets, the priming charge was ignited by a small spark created when a flint struck against a steel, which was known as "firing" the gun. Sometimes, after the spark was created, there would be a delay before the gunpowder in the barrel ignited, causing a delay in the actual firing of the weapon. This delay phenomenon was referred to as "hanging fire".
The term "hang fire" eventually extended its meaning beyond firearms and came to be used figuratively.
