CJ ML
hanged vs. hung Actually, contrary to what people might think, “hanged” is perfectly acceptable as a proper past-tense form of “hang” — when referring to deaths, that is. Merriam-Webster says: For both transitive and intransitive senses 1b the past and past participle hung, as well as hanged, is standard. Hanged is most appropriate for official executions <he was to be hanged, cut down whilst still alive—and his bowels torn out — Louis Allen> but hung is also used <gave orders that she should be hung — Peter Quennell>. Hung is more appropriate for less formal hangings <by morning I’ll be hung in effigy — Ronald Reagan>.