tine
tine
UK[taɪn]US[taɪn]
n
a pointed prong or spike, especially of a fork or antler.
Etymology
the word "tine" originates from old english "tind," meaning a prong or point. it is related to old norse "tindr" and old high german "zint," all sharing the core meaning of a projecting spike. this germanic root likely traces back to a proto-indo-european base meaning "to be sharp or to project." the word has remained remarkably consistent in form and meaning, specifically denoting the sharp points on tools like forks or on natural objects like antlers.
Analysis
this is a simplex word of old english origin.
Examples
one of the tines on the old gardening fork was bent.
the deer's antlers had several long, sharp tines.
be careful not to stab yourself with the tine when washing the fork.