Hung loosely from something, swinging slightly back and forth, or tempted someone with something they want but couldn't quite have.
From Middle English, possibly related to 'dangle' which may come from Scandinavian languages. Originally meant to hang loosely, and evolved to include the metaphorical meaning of tempting.
When someone dangles a carrot in front of you, your brain responds to the uncertainty—not knowing if you'll get it actually makes you want it more. That's why dangling rewards is so manipulative.
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