TIL that “hanger-on” used to be an actual occupation in the coal mining industry. It meant someone who attaches and detaches the tubs on an endless-rope haulage.

http://www.nsmg.apedale.co.uk/glossary/hterms.htm
#til #todayilearned
https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/1gom4c6/til_that_hangeron_used_to_be_an_actual_occupation/