# tongs

/ˈtɑŋz/ (US) · /tˈɒŋz/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tongs
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a tool with two long arms that you use to pick up or move things, especially hot food. You often use them in the kitchen to handle meat or seafood.

For teachers: a pair of long, hinged arms used for grasping, lifting, or turning objects, particularly in culinary or industrial contexts. Often used for handling items that are too hot or sharp to touch directly.

## Examples

- Use tongs to turn the steaks on the grill.
- The chef reached for a pair of heavy-duty tongs to safely move the large, hot pan from the oven to the cooling rack.
- While modern kitchens offer various gadgets, many professional chefs still prefer using tongs for their versatility in flipping delicate fish fillets or managing heavy-duty barbecue items without losing grip.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.