Javelin: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in sports or athletic competitions when referring to a light spear thrown by hand.

• She set a new record at the Olympic Games with her javelin throw

A general term for a long weapon with a pointed tip, used historically for hunting and combat. Can also refer to contemporary uses in certain cultural or survival contexts.

• The tribe used spears for hunting wild game in the forest

Refers to a long spear-like weapon used historically by infantry soldiers, especially during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

• The soldiers formed a defensive wall with their pikes to fend off the cavalry charge

Commonly associated with medieval knights and jousting tournaments. It can also refer to a long weapon used by cavalry soldiers.

• The knight lowered his lance and prepared for the joust

Also refers to a historical weapon, lighter and shorter than a spear, used for throwing.

• Ancient warriors used javelins in battle to strike enemies from a distance.
• He crafted a javelin as a part of his historical reenactment costume.

A versatile term for a weapon with a pointed tip, used for thrusting or throwing, found throughout various cultures and historical periods.

• The hunters used spears to catch their prey.
• He practiced throwing a spear at targets in his backyard.

Primarily referring to a long thrusting weapon used by infantry during the medieval and Renaissance periods in phalanx formations.

• The soldiers formed a wall with their pikes to fend off the cavalry charge.
• Each pikeman was trained to handle his pike effectively in close combat.

Commonly associated with medieval knights, a long weapon used for charging in mounted combat.

• The knight held his lance steady as he prepared to joust.
• In the tournament, he broke his lance against his opponent’s shield.