/prawng, prong/ , n.
1. one of the pointed tines of a fork.
2. any pointed, projecting part, as of an antler.
3. a branch of a stream.
4. Jewelry. a tapering metal projection, usually heavier than a claw, rising from the base of a jewelry setting and used to hold a stone in position as needed. Cf. claw (def. 7).
v.t.
5. to pierce or stab with or as if with a prong.
6. to supply with prongs.
[ 1400-50; late ME pronge, prange pain, affliction, pointed instrument; akin to OSw prang gorge, narrow street, MLG prange stake, prangen to press, Goth anaprangan to oppress ]
Syn. 2. hook, tooth, spur.