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Fang Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fang

[féƋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal anatomy

A fang is a long, pointed tooth found in certain animals, such as snakes and carnivorous mammals. Fangs are often associated with the ability to grasp and hold onto prey, as well as with venom delivery in some species, like vipers or cobras. They can vary in size and shape depending on the species and are typically used for hunting and self-defense. In mythology and literature, fangs are often symbolically linked to predatory behavior and archetypal monsters.

Synonyms

cusp, incisor, tooth.

Examples of usage

  • The snake struck quickly, its fangs sinking into the prey.
  • Vampires are depicted with long, sharp fangs.
  • The tiger displayed its fangs as a warning.
Context #2 | Noun

human anatomy

In dental anatomy, fangs refer to the pointed teeth located on the sides of the dental arch, also known as canine teeth. These teeth are crucial for tearing food and are typically more pronounced than other types of teeth. Depending on the person, canine teeth can sometimes appear more prominent and are often associated with both aesthetic and functional attributes in smile design.

Synonyms

canine, cuspids.

Examples of usage

  • She smiled, revealing her pronounced fangs.
  • He had an unusual dental structure with prominent fangs.
  • Dentists often focus on the alignment of fangs in braces.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Many predatory animals, like snakes and wolves, use fangs to deliver venom or to grip onto their prey tightly.
  • Some species of spiders also have fangs, which they use to inject venom into their food.

Pop Culture

  • Fangs are commonly associated with vampires in stories, making them symbols of fear or allure.
  • In movies and literature, characters with fangs often have supernatural powers or dangerous traits, like werewolves or Dracula.

History

  • The depiction of fangs in ancient artwork has been found in various cultures, often representing power and dominance.
  • In some cultures, the image of a fang has been used in heraldry and coats of arms to signify ferocity.

Mythology

  • Fangs often appear in myths as symbols of ferocity and strength, such as in the tales of the great wolf Fenrir in Norse mythology, whose fangs symbolize danger.
  • In various indigenous cultures, animals with fangs, like the jaguar, are revered and depicted in spiritual stories for their strength and hunting prowess.

Origin of 'fang'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fang' comes from the Old English word 'fanga', meaning 'to seize or grasp'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word '*fangwaz', which also relates to the act of taking or seizing something.

The word 'fang' originates from the Old English 'fanga', which meant 'to catch or seize'. This term is rooted in the Proto-Germanic '*fangan', sharing connections with similar words in various Germanic languages, which carry the same connotation of grasping or holding. The evolution of the term has seen it associated closely with the specialized teeth of predatory animals and has often been used figuratively in literature to signify danger or menace. Over the centuries, the semantic range of 'fang' has expanded to incorporate cultural representations of predation, particularly in folklore and mythology where fangs symbolize fearsome attributes.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,414, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.