Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • An instrument for curling the hair, not unlike a crimping-iron, heated before being used. Also curling-irons.

Etymologies

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Examples

  • Only once in my life did I ever have my hair curled with curling-tongs.

    How I Take Care Of My Hair | Edwardian Promenade 2009

  • And this was done in a couple of strokes with the curling-tongs.

    Eight Hundred Leagues on the Amazon 2003

  • It thus happened that when noon came the much-occupied barber had not had time to return on board, but had had to content himself with a little assai, some manioc flour, and turtle eggs, which he rapidly devoured between two applications of the curling-tongs.

    Eight Hundred Leagues on the Amazon 2003

  • By means of curling-tongs and spatulas for spreading wax, wigs were put back to work.

    The War of the Crowns Christian Jacq 2002

  • Presently she found herself hanging up Milly's clothes while Milly paid no attention; for she alternately stood before the glass in the dark corner, and kneeled on the hearth-rug, curling-tongs in hand.

    The Invader A Novel

  • Lisette, give me your mistress's combs, and put the curling-tongs in the fire.

    The French Immortals Series — Complete Various

  • Muslin petticoats, tossed down haphazard, pieces of lace, a cardboard helmet covered with gilt paper, open jewel-cases, bows of ribbon; curling-tongs, half hidden in the ashes; and on every side little pots, paint-brushes, odds and ends of all kinds.

    The French Immortals Series — Complete Various

  • He went out of the compartment and returned a few moments later with a small spirit stove and a pair of curling-tongs.

    Murder on the Orient Express Christie, Agatha, 1890-1976 1933

  • A certain degree of intimacy followed the loan of those curling-tongs.

    Lady Molly of Scotland Yard 1912

  • She tolerated Mrs. Tredwen's cat, tipped Ermyntrude – the tousled lodging-house slavey – lavishly, and lent the upstairs lodger her spirit-lamp and curling-tongs when Miss Rosie Campbell's got out of order.

    Lady Molly of Scotland Yard 1912

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