The word "tangs" is spelled with five letters, starting with a voiceless alveolar stop /t/ followed by an open back unrounded vowel /æ/. The final three letters are a voiced velar nasal /ŋ/ and a voiceless alveolar fricative /s/. The IPA symbol for the final "s" sound is /s/, which is pronounced with an unvoiced hissing sound. "Tangs" can refer to sharp points or protrusions, such as the points on the end of a fork or the spikes on a pine cone.
Tangs, as a noun, refers to the plural form of the word "tang." Tang, in turn, has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used.
One definition of tang is a sharp, pungent, or distinctive flavor or smell. It is often associated with a sharp taste sensation characterized by a pleasant or intense flavor. For instance, a citrus fruit like lemon or orange may have a tangy flavor due to its tartness.
Another definition of tang is a strong or sharp point or prong, commonly found on knives, swords, or other such objects. Tangs serve to enhance the grip and stability of the items and can aid in cutting or stabbing motions. They typically extend from the handle and give strength to the overall structure.
In addition, tang can also describe a ringing or resonant sound, particularly when referring to a metallic or sharp noise. It can be used to depict the sound of clanging metal or a bell's reverberation.
Lastly, tang can be used informally to denote a strong, distinct impression, feeling, or aftertaste left after experiencing something. This figurative meaning suggests that tang is not only a physical sensation but can also represent a lingering impact or influence felt emotionally or mentally.
The word "tangs" is actually the plural of "tang", which has multiple meanings and origins.
1. As a noun, "tang" can refer to the sharp, pointed end of a knife, sword, or other similar object. It comes from the Old Norse word "tǫng", meaning "tongue" or "strip".
2. "Tang" can also be used to describe the strong flavor or taste of something. In this context, it comes from the Middle English word "tang" or "tunge", derived from the Old Norse "tǫng". This sense of the word is closely related to the word "tongue" and refers to the sensation on the tongue produced by strong or pungent flavors.
3. Lastly, "tang" is sometimes used to denote a type of seaweed, especially kelp.