Word: Ice Tongs
Definition:Ice tongs are a tool used for lifting and carrying blocks of ice. They have two long arms that are joined at one end and can be squeezed together to grip the ice securely.
Usage Instructions: 1. To use ice tongs, hold the handles in each hand. 2. Open the arms of the tongs by pulling the handles apart. 3. Place the tongs around the block of ice. 4. Squeeze the handles together to grip the ice tightly. 5. Lift the ice with the tongs to move it where you need it.
Example Sentence: - "The bartender used ice tongs to add ice to the drinks without getting his hands wet."
Advanced Usage:While "ice tongs" specifically refers to the tool for ice, the concept of tongs can be applied to other materials, such as food. For example, you might also hear about "cooking tongs" which are used for flipping food while cooking.
Word Variants: - The singular form is "ice tong," although it is rarely used because they are usually referred to in plural. - Related words include "tongs," which can refer to various types of gripping tools used in kitchens or for other purposes.
Different Meanings: - The word "tongs" on its own can refer to any tool used for grasping and lifting, such as cooking tongs or metal tongs used in workshops.
Synonyms: - Grippers - Clamps (in a broader sense) - Lifters (though not as specific)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are not many idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "ice tongs." However, in a metaphorical sense, one might say "to grasp the situation" when referring to understanding a challenging scenario, similar to how tongs grasp objects.
Conclusion:Ice tongs are a practical tool designed to handle ice safely and cleanly. They can come in handy in various situations, especially in food and drink preparation.