Tongs is a plural noun. Some names of tools, including tongs, consist of two parts and only show up in the plural.

"Tongs" is a plural noun. Some names of tools, including tongs, consist of two parts and only show up in the plural.

I can't find my tongs.

I can't find my tong.

Plural nouns are also known as pluralia tantum (Latin for "plural only"). They frequently, but not always, involve objects that are made up of two connected parts. Forceps, pliers, scissors, and tweezers are some examples of these.

Did you sharpen your scissors?

She used tongs to turn the chicken breasts.

While you cannot use the article "a" before plural nouns ("a" is for one), you can count these objects by using the phrases "a pair of tongs", "two pairs of tongs", etc.

We bought two pairs of tongs and a cake spoon.

Keep also in mind that plural nouns take a plural form of a verb; thus, you can say "tongs are", but not "tongs is".

Your tongs are in the kitchen.

Your tongs is in the kitchen.