hay-fork

A farmer uses a hay-fork to lift a bundle of hay.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tool for handling hay: A "hay-fork" is a farming implement with two or more tines (prongs) used for lifting, tossing, or moving hay, straw, or other forage materials.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The farmer used a hay-fork to lift the bales of dried grass into the loft. (A tool with prongs for moving hay.)
  • He propped the hay-fork against the barn wall after finishing his work. (The implement was stored after use.)

Advanced Usage

• "to pitch hay with a hay-fork": to toss or move hay using this tool.
  • The labourer pitched the hay with a hay-fork into the wagon. (He used the fork to lift and throw the hay.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hayfork (n): an alternative spelling of "hay-fork", meaning the same tool.

  • The old hayfork was made of wood and iron. (A traditional version of the implement.)

• Pitchfork (n): a similar tool with a long handle and tines, used for moving hay or straw; often synonymous but sometimes broader in use.

  • A pitchfork is commonly used in farming for handling loose hay. (A related tool with similar function.)

Synonyms

• Pitchfork: a long-handled fork with tines, used for moving hay or straw.
• Hay fork: a two-pronged fork specifically for hay.

Related Idioms

• "to be as sharp as a hay-fork": a humorous or ironic expression meaning not sharp at all (since hay-forks are blunt).
  • His wit is as sharp as a hay-fork — completely dull. (A sarcastic comment about lack of intelligence.)

Note on Usage

• A "hay-fork" is distinct from a "garden fork" (used for soil) or a "manure fork" (used for animal waste). It is specifically designed for light, dry material like hay.