Sling \Sling\, n. [OE. slinge; akin to OD. slinge, D. slinger,
   OHG. slinga; cf. OF. eslingue, of German origin. See Sling,
   v. t.]
   1. An instrument for throwing stones or other missiles,
      consisting of a short strap with two strings fastened to
      its ends, or with a string fastened to one end and a light
      stick to the other. The missile being lodged in a hole in
      the strap, the ends of the string are taken in the hand,
      and the whole whirled rapidly round until, by loosing one
      end, the missile is let fly with centrifugal force.
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   2. The act or motion of hurling as with a sling; a throw;
      figuratively, a stroke.
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            The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. --Shak.
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            At one sling
            Of thy victorius arm, well-pleasing Son. --Milton.
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   3. A contrivance for sustaining anything by suspension; as:
      (a) A kind of hanging bandage put around the neck, in
          which a wounded arm or hand is supported.
      (b) A loop of rope, or a rope or chain with hooks, for
          suspending a barrel, bale, or other heavy object, in
          hoisting or lowering.
      (c) A strap attached to a firearm, for suspending it from
          the shoulder.
      (d) (Naut.) A band of rope or iron for securing a yard to
          a mast; -- chiefly in the plural.
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   Sling cart, a kind of cart used to transport cannon and
      their carriages, large stones, machines, etc., the objects
      transported being slung, or suspended by a chain attached
      to the axletree.

   Sling dog, one of a pair of iron hooks used as part of a
      sling. See def. 3
      (b) above.
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