Traditionally the term refers to a delay in the detonation of gunpowder or other ammunition, caused by some defect in the fuze. In more modern usage it means to 'hold back' on some plan or intended action.
"Yo, D, should I put the pizza in the oven now?"
"Nah, hangfire on that one until G gets here with the beer."
"Nah, hangfire on that one until G gets here with the beer."
by Daniel Cumming August 8, 2007