Pronunciation: [hˈʌŋ əpˌɒn] (IPA) 
"Hung upon" is a combination of two common English words, "hung" and "upon." The correct spelling of "hung" is /hʌŋ/, with the letter "h" being silent, and the "u" pronounced as /ʌ/. On the other hand, "upon" is pronounced as /ʌˈpɒn/ with a stressed "u" sound and a soft "n" sound at the end. Therefore, "hung upon" is spelled as /hʌŋ əˈpɒn/ in IPA phonetic transcription.
The expression "hung upon" is an idiomatic phrasal verb that conveys the idea of being very interested, fascinated, or emotionally attached to something or someone. This phrase finds its origins in the verb "hang" which primarily means to suspend or fix an object on a support. However, when combined with the preposition "upon," a figurative sense emerges that denotes an intense attachment or preoccupation.
When someone is "hung upon" something, it implies that they are deeply engrossed or captivated by it. It suggests a sense of obsession, where the person's thoughts, desires, or emotions revolve around a particular topic or individual. This attachment can be due to various reasons such as infatuation, admiration, or dependency.
For instance, one can be "hung upon" a significant other, constantly thinking about them and seeking their attention. Similarly, one can be "hung upon" a particular book, movie, or idea, investing considerable time and energy into exploring every aspect of it.
The phrase "hung upon" emphasizes the intensity and depth of the attachment or interest. It implies that the subject in question holds significant importance in the person's life and that their thoughts and actions heavily revolve around it.
In summary, "hung upon" denotes a profound attachment, preoccupation, or infatuation with someone or something, intensifying the level of interest and emotional investment.
The phrase "hung" comes from the Old English word "hangian", which means "to be suspended or attached". The word "upon" also comes from Old English and has a similar meaning, indicating being positioned or placed on top of something. When used together, "hung upon" suggests that something is attached or suspended on something else. The etymology of the phrase reflects the origin and development of these individual words in the English language over time.
