prong
UK: prɒŋ | US: prɔːŋ
n. a pointed projecting part, as of a fork or antler
n. a branch or division of something (e.g., a river or argument)
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The word "prong" originates from Middle English pronge, meaning "a pointed instrument," likely derived from Old English prang (a pain or pang) or related to Proto-Germanic prang- (to press, pinch). Over time, its meaning shifted from the sensation of sharpness to the physical object (e.g., fork tines). The word retains its compact Germanic structure without clear separable morphemes.
The fork’s prong bent when he tried to lift the heavy steak.
Deer shed their antlers, leaving behind bare prongs.
The river split into three prongs near the delta.
Her argument had several prongs, each addressing a different issue.
He accidentally stabbed himself with a sharp prong of the gardening tool.