hinj. [This word appears to be connected with hang, and with angle, the verb.]

1. The hook or joint on which a door or gate turns.

The gate self-opened wide

On golden hinges turning.

2. That on which any thing depends or turns; a governing principle, rule or point. This argument was the hinge on which the question turned.

3. A cardinal point; as east, west, north or south. [Little used.]

To be off the hinges, is to be in a state of disorder or irregularity.