n. 1. A distinctively sharp taste, flavor, or odor, as that of orange juice. 2. A distinctive quality: "Underneath it all was the tang of genuine adventure" (Jan Clausen). 3. A sharp point, tongue, or prong. 4. A projection by which a tool, such as a chisel or knife, is attached to its handle or stock. Also called shank. 5. See surgeonfish. tr.v. tanged, tang·ing, tangs 1. To furnish with a tang. 2. To give a tang to. [Middle English tange, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse tangi, point, sting.] tangi·ness n. tangy adj. |
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