Definition of tongs

The word "tongs" derived from the Old English term "tAng," which translates to "grip." It refers to a tool that enables people to grasp, lift, and move objects securely without directly touching them. The origin of the word "tongs" can be traced back to the Middle English period, around the 12th century. At this time, metalworking was a flourishing industry, necessitating the development of hand tools that could grip and manipulate hot materials safely. Tongs made of iron, steel or brass became increasingly popular during the Industrial Revolution, as they facilitated mass production processes such as casting, welding, and brazing. In the early 19th century, the term "tongs" became widely adopted in English-speaking countries. It was used interchangeably with other related terms, such as "forceps" or "pinchers," but gradually distinguished itself as a tool used primarily for grasping and manipulating objects at a distance. Over time, the use of tongs expanded beyond industrial and metalworking contexts to various other applications, including cooking, gardening, and cleaning. Today, tongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to cater to different tasks such as picking up hot coals, turning meat in a barbecue, or squeezing lemon wedges onto food. As such, the word "tongs" has remained a useful and versatile term in English language and continues to be an essential part of many everyday tasks.