Meaning: To start a business or make it known that one is available to provide professional services, especially as a doctor, lawyer, or consultant.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “After years of working for a big law firm, she decided to hang out her shingle and open her own practice.”
- “He hung out his shingle as a financial advisor and quickly built a strong client base.”
- “With her experience in graphic design, she’s ready to hang out her shingle as a freelancer.”
Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century when professionals, such as doctors or lawyers, would literally hang a small wooden sign, or “shingle,” outside their office to advertise their services. Over time, it became a figurative way of expressing the act of starting one’s own business.
