pitchfork
pitchfork Lexical Profile
pitchfork Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An agricultural tool with a long handle and two or more sharp tines, used for lifting and tossing hay, straw, or sheaves.
"The farmer used a sturdy wooden pitchfork to load the loose hay onto the wagon before the storm arrived."
A symbol of angry mob rebellion or violent agrarian uprising, often used metaphorically in modern contexts to represent public outrage.
"When the controversial tax policy was announced, politicians joked that the citizens would soon be coming for them with pitchforks and torches."
• verb
To lift, throw, or toss something using a pitchfork.
"He spent the entire afternoon pitchforking fresh straw into the horse stalls."
To thrust someone abruptly or forcefully into a position, situation, or role without warning or preparation.
"After the sudden resignation of the CEO, the young manager was unexpectedly pitchforked into leading the entire division."
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'pichforke', combining 'picchen' (to pitch or thrust) and 'forke' (fork), originally denoting an agricultural implement used for tossing hay.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.