backsword

1 of 2

noun (1)

back·sword ˈbak-ˌsȯrd

: a single-edged sword

backswording

2 of 2

noun (2)

back·sword·ing

-diŋ

variants or backsword

plural -s

: fencing with a backsword or singlestick

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1597, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of backsword was in 1597

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Browse Nearby Words

backswing

backsword

backswording

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Backsword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backsword. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

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