Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Javelin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฏ
Add to dictionary

javelin

[หˆdส’รฆvยทษ™ยทlษชn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

athletics

A long, pointed spear used as a weapon or in sports such as track and field.

Synonyms

lance, pike, spear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
javelin

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
spear

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
pike

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
lance

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

Examples of usage

  • He threw the javelin with great force.
  • The javelin event is part of the track and field competition.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A missile weapon designed to be thrown by hand. It typically consists of a metal point attached to a wooden shaft.

Synonyms

lance, pike, spear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
javelin

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.
spear

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.
pike

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.
lance

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 opponentโ€™s shield.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient warriors used javelins in battles.
  • The javelin was an effective weapon in ancient warfare.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Javelin throwing has been an Olympic sport since 1908 for men and 1932 for women, showcasing athletic skill and technique.
  • Athletes use specialized techniques, like a 'cross-step' and a powerful arm motion, to maximize their throwing distance.

History

  • In ancient times, javelins were used as weapons for hunting and warfare before evolving into a competitive sport.
  • The javelin was famously included in ancient Greek competitions, where it was thrown for distance and accuracy.

Science

  • Javelin throwers utilize principles of physics like aerodynamics and angular momentum to achieve optimal throws.
  • The design of modern javelins incorporates materials like carbon fiber and aluminum for a combination of strength and lightweight performance.

Pop Culture

  • The javelin has appeared in various movies and video games, often depicted as a weapon used by skilled warriors or athletes.
  • In the popular series 'The Hunger Games,' Archery and javelin throwing are featured, highlighting their cultural significance and dramatic value.

Origin of 'javelin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'javelin' originates from the Old French 'javeline,' which means 'little spear.'
  • Its roots can be traced back even further to the Latin word 'javellina,' a diminutive form of 'galea,' meaning 'spear.'

The word 'javelin' originated from the Old French word 'javeline', which in turn came from the Latin word 'iaculum' meaning 'a dart' or 'javelin'. Javelins have been used as weapons and sporting equipment for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations. They were commonly used by warriors in battles and later became a popular event in track and field competitions.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,449, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.