Bayonet: meaning, definitions and examples
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bayonet
[ ˈbeɪəˌnɛt ]
military equipment
A bayonet is a blade that may be fixed to the muzzle of a rifle and used to stab an opponent in hand-to-hand fighting. It transforms a firearm into a multi-purpose weapon by allowing for both shooting and close-quarters combat. Historically, bayonets were essential in various warfare scenarios, especially during the 17th to 19th centuries. They are often used with a blank-firing mechanism to ensure they can be employed without the risk of lethal force. Today, despite changes in combat, bayonets remain a part of some military arsenals for ceremonial purposes and utility.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The soldier attached his bayonet for the final assault.
- Bayonets were commonly used in trench warfare.
- During the drill, the troops practiced with their bayonets.
- The museum displayed various types of historical bayonets.
Translations
Translations of the word "bayonet" in other languages:
🇵🇹 bayoneta
🇮🇳 bayonet
🇩🇪 Bayonett
🇮🇩 bayonet
🇺🇦 байонет
🇵🇱 bagnet
🇯🇵 銃剣 (じゅうけん)
🇫🇷 baïonnette
🇪🇸 bayoneta
🇹🇷 bajoneti
🇰🇷 바이요넷
🇸🇦 خنجر بايونيت
🇨🇿 bayonet
🇸🇰 bajonet
🇨🇳 刺刀 (cìdāo)
🇸🇮 bajonet
🇮🇸 bajonet
🇰🇿 байонет
🇬🇪 ბაიონეტი
🇦🇿 bajonet
🇲🇽 bayoneta
Etymology
The word 'bayonet' originates from the early 17th century and is believed to be derived from the French word 'baïonnette', which translates to 'a small bayonne knife'. The term reflects the city of Bayonne in France, where it is said that the first bayonets were produced. Initially, they were designed as dagger-like blades attached to the ends of muskets in order to enhance their combat effectiveness in battle. The use of bayonets became widespread throughout Europe, evolving into various designs, including socket bayonets and plug bayonets. Over time, militaries around the world adopted bayonets into their standard weaponry, often incorporating them into military training to instill close-combat capabilities. As warfare technology advanced, the prominence of bayonets diminished, yet they remain a symbolic representation of military tradition and are still used in modern armed forces for ceremonial functions.