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prong

 - 3 dictionary results

prong

  [prawng, prong]
Use prong in a Sentence
–noun
1. one of the pointed tines of a fork.
2. any pointed, projecting part, as of an antler.
3. a branch of a stream.
4. Jewelry. a tapering metal projection, usually heavier than a claw, rising from the base of a jewelry setting and used to hold a stone in position as needed. Compare claw (def. 7).
–verb (used with object)
5. to pierce or stab with or as if with a prong.
6. to supply with prongs.
Origin:
1400–50; late ME pronge, prange pain, affliction, pointed instrument; akin to OSw prang gorge, narrow street, MLG prange stake, prangen to press, Goth anaprangan to oppress

Synonyms:
2. hook, tooth, spur.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To prong
prong   (prông, prŏng)   
n.  

  1. A thin, pointed, projecting part: a pitchfork with four prongs.

  2. A branch; a fork: the two prongs of a river.

tr.v.   pronged, prong·ing, prongs
To pierce with or as if with a thin, pointed, projecting part.

[Middle English pronge, pointed instrument, pain, from Medieval Latin pronga, of Germanic origin.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

prong 
1492, from Anglo-Latin pronga "prong, pointed tool," of unknown origin, perhaps related to M.L.G. prange "stick, restraining device," prangen "to press, pinch." See also prod, which may be related. Prong-horned antelope is from 1815.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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