tongs Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun any of various devices for taking hold of objects; usually have two hinged legs with handles above and pointed hooks below
    pair of tongs.

WordNet

Tongs noun plural
Etymology
OE. tonge, tange, AS. tange; akin to D. tang, G. zanga, OHG. zanga, Don. tang, Sw. tng, Icel. tng, Gr. to bite, Skr. da, da. Cf. Tang a strong taste, anything projecting.
Definitions
  1. An instrument, usually of metal, consisting of two parts, or long shafts, jointed together at or near one end, or united by an elastic bow, used for handling things, especially hot coals or metals; -- often called a pair of tongs.

Webster 1913