tongue

tongue · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The muscular organ in the mouth used for tasting, swallowing, and speech.

  2. 2.

    A language.

  3. 3.

    A thing resembling a tongue in shape.

Forms

plural: tongues

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    tongue-in-cheek — Not meant seriously; ironic.
  • •
    hold one's tongue — To stay silent.
  • •
    slip of the tongue — An accidental mistake in speaking.

Related words

See also: language, mouth, speech
Synonyms: language

Etymology

From Old English tunge ("tongue, language").