1. a person who harvests oysters or clams using tongs
Usage: specialized maritime occupation

Examples

• The tonger worked the shallow waters at dawn, searching for oysters.
• Local tongers have harvested shellfish from these beds for generations.
• The experienced tonger could feel the difference between an oyster and a rock through the long handles.
• During peak season, tongers can collect several bushels of clams per day.
• The tonger’s boat was equipped with sorting tables and storage bins.
• New regulations require tongers to obtain special licenses before harvesting.