Main Entry:

at·latl

Pronunciation:

\ˈät-ˌlä-t^əl\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Nahuatl ahtlatl

Date:

1871

: a device for throwing a spear or dart that consists of a rod or board with a projection (as a hook) at the rear end to hold the weapon in place until released

[atlatl illustration]