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Glite Dictionary
chain tongs

chain tongs

8.1
A tool with a chain and handle that grips and turns large pipes
  • noun
  • /tʃeɪn tɔŋz/
  • Specialized
translation icon : tenazas de cadena
  • Make sure the chain tongs are properly secured before turning the pipe.

Examples

  • He used chain tongs to tighten the pipe.

  • The plumber used chain tongs to tighten the heavy steel pipe.

  • For larger diameter pipes, chain tongs provide a strong, adjustable grip.

  • The plumber carries chain tongs in his toolbox.

  • The plumber used chain tongs to grip the large pipe for repairs.

  • During the installation, he reached for the chain tongs to ensure a secure hold on the fitting.

  • To avoid slippage, always use chain tongs when working with heavy pipes.

Synonyms

chain wrench
vschain tongs
  • Specialized
6.8

A hand tool with a chain loop that grips and turns pipes or other round things

is specific to turning large cylindrical tubes and has serrated jaws

Surface Forms

chain tongs singular
chain tong plural

Morphology

chain + tongs

The compound 'chain tongs' is transparently composed of 'chain' (a length of linked metal) + 'tongs' (a device for grasping), so a learner who knows both words can infer it is a gripping tool that uses a chain. While the exact technical use as a pipe wrench is specialized, the general function (gripping/turning large objects) follows directly from the constituents and common noun‑noun compounding patterns.

Etymology

Chain tongs names a tool made from a length of chain joined to toothed tongs that wrap around a large pipe to hold it tightly. That's why the name means 'a tool used to grip and turn large pipes'.