prong

 
Pronunciation: /prɒŋ/

noun

  • 1each of two or more projecting pointed parts at the end of a fork.
  • a projecting part on various other devices: a small rubber brush with large prongs
  • vulgar slang a man’s penis.
  • 2each of the separate parts of an attack or operation, typically approaching a place or subject from different positions: the three main prongs of the government’s programme

verb

[with object]
  • pierce or stab with a fork: he passed his fork to the right hand to prong the meat

Derivatives

pronged

adjective
[in combination]: a three-pronged attack

Origin:

late 15th century (denoting a forked implement): perhaps related to Middle Low German prange 'pinching instrument'. The verb dates from the mid 19th century