javelin

jav·e·lin

noun \ˈjav-lən, ˈja-və-\

Definition of JAVELIN

1

: a light spear thrown as a weapon of war or in hunting

2

: a slender usually metal shaft at least 260 centimeters long that is thrown for distance in a field event

Examples of JAVELIN

1. <from atop his horse the warrior hurled a javelin that pierced the chest of his hapless foe>

Origin of JAVELIN

Middle English chafeveleyn, from Middle French javeline, alteration of javelot, of Celtic origin; akin to Old Irish gabul forked stick

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to JAVELIN

Synonyms: spear, lance, pike, pikestaff, shaft

Related Words: dart, spike; gaff, halberd (also halbert), harpoon, leister, trident

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