Tonged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tonged
[tʌŋd ]
Definition
having tongs
The term 'tonged' is used to describe something that is gripped between tongs or has been manipulated using tongs. It often pertains to the method of handling food or other hot objects. For instance, when serving food from a hot pan, tongs are typically used to avoid burns and make the procedure safer and more efficient. The word can also relate to the appearance or design of a tool that features a tong-like mechanism.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The salad was tonged expertly onto the plates.
- She tonged the sausages from the grill.
- The ice was tonged out of the bucket into the glass.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Tongs are an essential tool in cooking, helping chefs safely handle hot food like grilling meat.
- Innovative designs have led to tongs being employed in industries like medicine, where special tongs can delicately pick up surgical instruments.
Culture
- In many Asian cultures, special tongs are used for serving food, demonstrating the importance of shared meals.
- In barbecues and potlucks, a pair of tongs is often seen as a social tool, inviting people to serve and share together.
Psychology
- The act of using tongs can promote mindfulness, as it requires focus and precision, engaging both mind and body.
- Studies suggest that the use of utensils like tongs can reduce the likelihood of overeating by promoting slower, more deliberate food consumption.
Art
- In modern art, sometimes tools like tongs are repurposed in installations, showcasing the relationship between functionality and creativity.
- Some artists use the action of picking and placing with tongs as a metaphor for control and choice in their creative processes.
Origin of 'tonged'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tong' comes from Old English 'tange', which means 'to grasp'.
- It has been used in various forms to describe tools with two parts that join at one end, allowing gripping at the other.
The word 'tonged' originates from the noun 'tong,' which has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic '*tungō,' meaning a forked tool for gripping. The evolution of this tool through the ages showcases its significance in various cultures, particularly in cooking and serving food. Historically, tongs have been used since ancient Roman times, illustrating their long-standing utility in human civilization. As methods of cooking and serving have advanced, the design of tongs has also evolved, leading to various forms tailored for specific tasks, including grilling and baking. 'Tonged' became associated with the action performed by using these tools, further embedding the word in culinary lexicon.