Main Entry:

¹tang

Pronunciation:

\ˈtaŋ\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse tangi point of land, tang

Date:

15th century

1: a projecting shank, prong, fang, or tongue (as on a knife, file, or sword) to connect with the handle2 a: a sharp distinctive often lingering flavor b: a pungent odor c: something having the effect of a tang (as in stimulation of the senses) <the tang of the autumn air> <add tang to your writing>3 a: a faint suggestion : trace <my comment held a tang of sarcasm> b: a distinguishing characteristic that sets apart or gives a special individuality4: any of various surgeonfishes — compare blue tang

— tanged \ˈtaŋd\ adjective