Javelin: meaning, definitions and examples

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javelin

[ˈdʒæv·ə·lɪn ]

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?

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?

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 opponent’s shield.

Examples of usage

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

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.'

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "javelin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dardo

🇮🇳 भाला

🇩🇪 Speer

🇮🇩 lembing

🇺🇦 спис

🇵🇱 oszczep

🇯🇵 やり (yari)

🇫🇷 javelot

🇪🇸 jabalina

🇹🇷 cirit

🇰🇷 창 (chang)

🇸🇦 رمح (rumḥ)

🇨🇿 oštěp

🇸🇰 oštep

🇨🇳 标枪 (biāoqiāng)

🇸🇮 kopje

🇮🇸 spjót

🇰🇿 найза

🇬🇪 შუბი (shubi)

🇦🇿 mizraq

🇲🇽 jabalina

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.

...
25446 midwinter
25447 suzerainty
25448 decking
25449 javelin
25450 telepathy
25451 mitre
25452 uncontaminated
...