I. ˈtaŋ noun
Etymology: Middle English, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse tangi point of land, tang
Date: 15th century
1. : a projecting shank, prong, fang, or tongue (as on a knife, file, or sword) to connect with the handle
2.
a. : a sharp distinctive often lingering flavor
b. : a pungent odor
c. : something having the effect of a tang (as in stimulation of the senses)
the tang of the autumn air
add tang to your writing
3.
a. : a faint suggestion : trace
my comment held a tang of sarcasm
b. : a distinguishing characteristic that sets apart or gives a special individuality
4. : any of various surgeonfishes — compare blue tang
• tanged ˈtaŋd adjective
II. transitive verb
Date: 1566
1. : to furnish with a tang
2. : to affect with a tang
III. verb
Etymology: imitative
Date: 1556
: clang , ring
IV. noun
Date: 1686
: a sharp twanging sound