1. Any of various devices for taking hold of objects; usually have two hinged legs with handles above and pointed hooks below
   "He used tongs to carefully remove the hot coals from the fire";
   - pair of tongs

1. In China, an association, secret society, or organization; in the United States, typically a secret association of Chinese immigrants
   "The tong provided support and protection for its members in the Chinatown community"

1. Use tongs, e.g. to hold, pick up, curl hair, etc.
   "She tonged her hair to create loose curls"

Type of: device

Encyclopedia: Tongs