Bowstring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐น
bowstring
[หboสstrษชล ]
Definition
archery, equipment
A bowstring is a cord that connects the two ends of a bow, enabling it to shoot arrows. It is typically made from strong materials such as nylon, Dacron, or traditional materials like animal sinew or gut. The bowstring plays a crucial role in the performance of the bow, affecting the speed and accuracy of the arrow. Proper maintenance, including regular checking for wear and tear, is important to ensure safety and efficiency in archery.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She carefully adjusted the bowstring before taking aim.
- The bowstring snapped during the competition.
- He prefers using a braided bowstring for better durability.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, developed bows and arrows for hunting and warfare, where the bowstring was crucial for performance.
- In medieval times, the longbow, equipped with a robust bowstring, became a significant weapon, especially for English archers during battles like Agincourt.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, archery is not only a sport but also a ceremonial practice, with bowstrings symbolizing connection to nature and spiritual beliefs.
- In Native American cultures, bowstrings were often crafted with great care, and the bow represented strength and skill.
Science
- The tension and elasticity of bowstrings are essential for energy transfer when shooting an arrow, showcasing principles of physics.
- Modern materials, like Dacron and Kevlar, are now used to improve durability and performance in recreational and competitive archery.
Sports
- Archery has gained popularity as a competitive sport in the Olympics since 1900, where the quality of the bowstring significantly influences accuracy.
- Various styles of bow, including recurve and compound bows, use different types of bowstrings to enhance shooting efficiency and precision.
Origin of 'bowstring'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'bowstring' comes from the Old English word โboga,โ meaning bow, combined with โstring,โ referring to the cord.
- Historical usage shows that various materials like gut, silk, or modern synthetic fibers have been used for bowstrings throughout different cultures.
The term 'bowstring' has its roots in the Old English word 'boga', meaning bow, and 'string', which derives from the Proto-Germanic 'strangwaz', related to the concept of something stretched or pulled tight. Historically, the use of bowstrings dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their use found in early civilizations for hunting and combat. As archery evolved, different materials were experimented with, leading to advancements in bowstring technology. The development of synthetic materials in the 20th century revolutionized bowstring construction, enhancing performance and durability, and making bowstrings more accessible and reliable for both amateur and professional archers.