fong: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very low (rare, chiefly dialectal or slang)Informal, slang, potentially offensive, dialectal (especially South African and Scottish)
Quick answer
What does “fong” mean?
To steal or take something illicitly, often with cunning or trickery.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To steal or take something illicitly, often with cunning or trickery.
To hit or strike someone; also used as a slang term for a malodorous smell.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British slang (rare/dated), it can mean to steal. In American English, it is virtually unknown and non-standard. The 'hit/punch' sense is primarily Australian.
Connotations
In UK contexts, it suggests sly theft. It often has a crude, lower-register connotation regardless of region.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both standard dialects. Mostly encountered in historical slang dictionaries or specific regional vernaculars.
Grammar
How to Use “fong” in a Sentence
[Subject] fong [Object] (e.g., He fonged my wallet).[Subject] get fonged (passive) (e.g., My phone got fonged).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fong” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He tried to fong a packet of biscuits from the corner shop.
- My lighter's been fonged!
American English
- (Not standard; if used, mimicking UK slang) In that British show, the pickpocket fonged a watch.
adverb
British English
- (Not used)
American English
- (Not used)
adjective
British English
- (Rare) That was a fong move, taking his last beer.
- (South African slang) What a fong smell in here!
American English
- (Not used)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Only in very specific, informal circles where the slang is known.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fong”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Assuming it is widely understood.
- Confusing its different regional meanings.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it is non-standard, considered slang or dialect, and is very rarely used in modern English.
No. It is strictly informal, slang, and likely to be misunderstood or seen as unprofessional.
Its most attested meaning is to steal or pilfer something, especially in a sly manner.
No, there is no established etymological connection. Any similarity is coincidental.
To steal or take something illicitly, often with cunning or trickery.
Fong is usually informal, slang, potentially offensive, dialectal (especially south african and scottish) in register.
Fong: in British English it is pronounced /fɒŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /fɑːŋ/ or /fɔːŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"To be on the fong" (to be engaged in stealing).”
- “"Fong it up" (to spoil or make a mess of something - extended slang).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a FONe getting Gon(e) - someone 'fonged' your phone.
Conceptual Metaphor
THEFT IS A SUDDEN GRASP/SNATCH.
Practice
Quiz
In which regional slang might 'fong' refer to a bad smell?