pitchfork

noun

pitch·​fork ˈpich-ˌfȯrk How to pronounce pitchfork (audio)
: a long-handled fork that has two or three long somewhat curved prongs and is used especially in pitching hay
pitchfork transitive verb

Examples of pitchfork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In due time, torch and pitchfork crowd, in due time. Miami Herald, 13 Oct. 2025 An impressive four-game winning streak followed a lopsided loss at Wazzu that had some natives not just restless but greasing skids and sharpening pitchforks. Kirk Kenney, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Oct. 2025 But back to the people and their pitchforks… à la carte, the remastered Wii titles are priced at $39.99 each, while the bundle itself will save you $10 and set you back $69.99, and note that Nintendo didn’t put these prices in the trailer, probably for good reason. Mitch Wallace, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025 Heck, even Sydney Sweeney in an American Eagle ad was too much for the online pitchfork crowd. Matt K. Lewis, Twin Cities, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pitchfork

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pitchfork was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pitchfork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pitchfork. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

pitchfork

noun
pitch·​fork ˈpich-ˌfȯ(ə)rk How to pronounce pitchfork (audio)
: a tool with a long handle and usually two to five metal prongs that is used especially in pitching hay
pitchfork verb

More from Merriam-Webster on pitchfork

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!