hangar queen: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hangar queen’ mean?
The idiom hangar queen refers to an aircraft that spends more time being repaired or maintained than being used. It is used metaphorically to describe anything that is frequently out of service or under repair.
Idiom Explorer
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Elusive Aircraft Troubles
Hangar queen
In aviation jargon, the term "hangar queen" refers to an aircraft that spends an excessive amount of time undergoing repairs or maintenance instead of being operational. It describes an aircraft that is unreliable or has constant mechanical issues, making it unfit for regular use. The term itself combines the words "hangar," which is a storage facility for aircraft, and "queen," implying a high level of importance or designation.
The usage of "hangar queen" can be traced back to the mid-20th century, originating among pilots and mechanics in the United States. During this time, aircraft hangars became essential in aviation infrastructure. The frustration and disappointment experienced by aviation professionals when dealing with problematic aircraft led to the emergence of this idiom.
Over the years, "hangar queen" has expanded beyond its original aviation origins and is now used metaphorically in various industries and contexts. It is used to describe any object, person, or system that is chronically unreliable or requires excessive maintenance.
The idiom "hangar queen" has found its way into popular culture and everyday vocabulary. It resonates with people from various backgrounds who encounter unreliable objects or systems in their lives.
The idiom "hang by a thread" is related to "hangar queen" as it also conveys a sense of precariousness. When something hangs by a thread, it is in a delicate and uncertain state, much like a hangar queen that requires constant repairs and is on the brink of becoming inoperable.
The phrase "go hang" is another related idiom. It is used to express indifference or disregard towards someone or something. Similarly, when an aircraft is deemed a hangar queen, it is essentially being disregarded due to its chronic issues and the frustration it causes to those who must deal with it.
The idiom "give a hang" can also be associated with a hangar queen. When someone says they don't give a hang, it means they don't care or have any interest in something. Likewise, when an aircraft becomes a hangar queen, it loses its value and importance due to its constant need for maintenance and lack of reliability.
Lastly, the idiom "hang an arse" has a more specific meaning related to the idiom "hangar queen." "Hang an arse" refers to linger or delay unnecessarily. In the case of a hangar queen, it lingers in the hangar undergoing repairs and maintenance instead of being operational and serving its intended purpose.
The expanded usage of "hangar queen" in various industries and contexts highlights the universal understanding of its underlying meaning. Whether it's technology, automotive, or consumer goods, the idiom captures the frustration and inefficiency associated with persistent maintenance.
Language evolves and extends beyond its original domain of usage, as seen in the case of "hangar queen." What started as a term used by aviation professionals to describe problematic aircraft has become part of everyday vocabulary. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and frustrations that come with encountering unreliable objects or systems in our lives.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "hangar queen" can be used in a sentence:
- 1. The vintage aircraft was a hangar queen, requiring constant repairs and never being able to fully function.
- 2. The classic car that was supposed to be a collectible turned out to be a hangar queen, spending most of its time in the garage for repairs.
- 3. The expensive yacht was labeled a hangar queen due to its frequent breakdowns and the constant need for maintenance.
The idiom "hangar queen" is commonly used to describe an object, typically a vehicle or equipment, that is perpetually in need of repairs or maintenance, making it unreliable or impractical to use.
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