# Tyne

/ˈtaɪn/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tyne
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

one of the sharp, pointed parts of a fork or a deer's antler. You use this word when talking about the individual metal teeth on a kitchen tool.

For teachers: a prong or sharp point, specifically one of the metal projections on a fork or a branch of an antler.

## Examples

- One tyne of the fork is bent.
- The gardener used a pitchfork with four sharp tynes to move the heavy pile of hay into the barn.
- The majestic stag displayed a massive set of antlers, with each individual tyne polished smooth from years of rubbing against the bark of ancient oak trees.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the fork's teeths" but "the fork's tines" — While 'teeth' is sometimes used informally, 'tines' (or 'tynes') is the specific technical term for the prongs of a fork.

## Usage notes

- Commonly spelled 'tine' in modern English; 'tyne' is an older or variant spelling.

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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.