Phrase guide

hammer and tongs

phrase · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

phrase

Meaning 1

In a manner indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • When they had an argument they went at it hammer and tongs.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Perhaps from the use of a hammer and tongs by traditional blacksmiths. May also be suggestive of the manner in which the hammer is used.

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Galician: en serio — With tools indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm
  • Galician: á mantenta — With tools indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm
  • Icelandic: ganga í af lífs og sálar kröftum — With tools indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm
  • Icelandic: leggja sig allan fram — With tools indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm