Prong: meaning, definitions and examples

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prong

 

[ prɒŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

part of an object

A prong is a pointed projecting part, such as a point of a fork or antler.

Synonyms

point, spike, tine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prong

Typically used to describe one of the long, thin parts of a fork or a similar object that has multiple projections.

  • The prongs of the fork were bent.
  • She carefully placed the meat on the prongs of the barbecue fork.
tine

Specifically used to refer to the individual prongs of a fork or similar utensil. It's more technical and less commonly used in everyday language.

  • One of the tines on the fork was broken.
  • He examined the tines of the rake to make sure none were bent.
spike

Often used to describe a long, thin, and sharp projection, like those found on a cactus or in sports equipment. It can have a more aggressive or dangerous connotation.

  • The cactus was covered in spikes.
  • He drove the spike into the ground for the tent.
point

Generally used to describe the sharp or tapered end of an object. It can also be used abstractly to denote a specific idea or argument.

  • The point of the knife is very sharp.
  • Her main point was about the importance of education.

Examples of usage

  • The fork had four sharp prongs.
  • The deer's antlers had several prongs.
Context #2 | Noun

electrical connector

In electronics, a prong refers to one of the conducting elements in a plug or socket.

Synonyms

pin, terminal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prong

This seems to be a repetition. Refer to the first entry for details.

  • Refer to the first entry for examples
pin

Pin is often used for small, slender objects that are used to fasten or mark something, including clothing, electronics, and more. It also can be used in the context of holding components together or marking specific points.

  • She secured her hair with a bobby pin
  • Engineers often use pins to connect parts of machinery
terminal

This is commonly used in electronics and electrical engineering to describe the end point of a conductor where connections are made. It can also refer to an interface at the end of a circuit.

  • Make sure to connect the wires to the correct terminals
  • The battery terminals need to be cleaned regularly

Examples of usage

  • The power cord has three prongs.
  • Make sure to insert the prongs correctly into the outlet.

Translations

Translations of the word "prong" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dente

🇮🇳 दाँत

🇩🇪 Zinke

🇮🇩 gigi

🇺🇦 зубець

🇵🇱 ząb

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 dent

🇪🇸 púa

🇹🇷 çatal dişi

🇰🇷 

🇸🇦 شوكة

🇨🇿 zub

🇸🇰 zub

🇨🇳 齿

🇸🇮 zob

🇮🇸 tönn

🇰🇿 тіс

🇬🇪 კბილი

🇦🇿 diş

🇲🇽 púa

Etymology

The word 'prong' originated from the Middle English 'pronge', which is related to the Old Norse 'prongr' meaning 'a point'. The term has been used since the 15th century to refer to pointed projecting parts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,674, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.