Pronunciation: [flˈɒŋ] (IPA) 
The word "Flong" is often misspelled because it has an unusual phonetic pronunciation. The correct spelling is /flɔŋ/, which can be broken down into individual sounds: /f/ for the initial consonant, followed by a /l/ sound, and then a /ɔ/ vowel sound that is similar to the "aw" sound. The word ends with a nasal sound represented by the IPA symbol /ŋ/. Remembering these individual sounds can help ensure the correct spelling of "Flong".
Flong is a term with multiple definitions depending on its context. In printing, flong refers to a type of mold made from compressed paper or papier-mâché, used to cast metal plates for printing. The process involves creating a flong mold by pressing the material onto a flat surface bearing the impression of the typeface, which is then shaped around a metal frame. It is commonly used in letterpress printing to reproduce pages and illustrations.
In another usage, flong is also a slang term referring to a false story or exaggerated account that is intentionally spread or embellished for various reasons, often to deceive or mislead others. This can commonly be encountered within the realm of gossip or rumors.
Additionally, flong can be a verb, describing the act of temporarily disposing of or disregarding something, mainly in a hasty or careless manner. For example, one might say, "I will just fling those papers on my desk for now."
In summary, flong is primarily known as a mold-making material used in printing to create metal plates. However, it can also refer to a fabricated story or rumor, as well as the act of disposing or disregarding something temporarily.
The word "flong" originated from the late 18th century and comes from the dialectal English word "flang" or "fleng". However, it is believed to have derived from the Old English "flængan" or "flengan", which means "to fling" or "to hurl". The term then evolved to refer specifically to a type of curved, flexible matrix used in printing. Over time, "flong" became the common term for this material, which was typically made from papier-mâché or plaster and used to make duplicates of printing plates for letterpress printing.
