tine

A tine is a slender, pointed projection or prong that appears on a variety of tools, implements, and natural structures. The singular form is tine, while multiple projections are described as tines.

In everyday use, tines are most familiar as the prongs of forks and combs. Fork tines extend from the handle to spear or lift food, while comb tines separate or align fibers. Gardening and agricultural tools also use tines, including rakes, harrows, cultivators, and seed drills, where the tines penetrate, loosen, or aerate soil and aid in weed control.

In machinery and industry, tines are employed on equipment designed for soil interaction, material handling, or detangling processes. The design of a tine—its length, thickness, curvature, and spacing—depends on the intended task, balancing penetration with durability.

In biology, the term is used to describe branch-like projections on various structures. Most notably, deer and other cervids have antlers with tines—secondary branches that extend from the main beam. The number, orientation, and length of tines on antlers vary by species, age, and individual.

Tines may also appear in other contexts to denote any slim, pointed projection, such as on certain tools, grippers, or mechanical components. Damaged or bent tines can impair function, making replacement or repair a common maintenance consideration.