tongs

noun

ˈtäŋz 

ˈtȯŋz

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: any of numerous grasping devices consisting commonly of two pieces joined at one end by a pivot or hinged like scissors

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tonges, plural of tonge, from Old English tang; akin to Old High German zanga tongs and perhaps to Greek daknein to bite

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tongs

• curling tongs
• hammer and tongs
• lazy tongs

Rhymes for tongs

• gongs
• longs
• prongs
• songs
• thongs
• throngs
• wrongs
• belongs
• furlongs
• prolongs

Kids Definition

tongs

plural noun

ˈtäŋz 

ˈtȯŋz

: a device for taking hold of something that consists usually of two movable pieces joined at one end