Fogó

Fogó is a Hungarian word with several related meanings in everyday language and culture. Etymologically it derives from the verb fogni, "to take" or "to hold," and is used both as a common noun and in compound forms.

As a tool, fogó refers to implements designed for gripping, holding or cutting, comparable to pliers, tongs or pincers in English. Different types of fogók exist for specific trades and tasks—lapfogó for general gripping, csípőfogó for cutting, and csavarhúzófogó variants—distinguished by jaw shape, leverage and intended material. They are standard equipment in metalworking, carpentry, electronics and household toolkits.

In play and sport, fogó denotes a traditional Hungarian children's game analogous to tag. One player is designated the fogó (the catcher) and attempts to touch other players to transfer the role; regional variants include rules about safe zones, team play or reversed roles. The game appears in literature and folklore as part of informal outdoor recreation and socialization among children.

Fogó also appears as a surname and in place names, though it is not among the most common Hungarian family names. In compounds and idiomatic expressions, fogó forms words related to holding or capturing, reflecting its root meaning. Usage ranges from technical descriptions of tools to colloquial speech and cultural references, retaining a basic sense connected to grasping or catching.