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Joust: meaning, definitions and examples

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joust

 

[ dʒaʊst ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

medieval combat

To joust means to engage in a sport or contest where two knights on horseback charge at each other with lances. This activity was a popular form of entertainment during the medieval period, showcasing skills in horsemanship, combat, and chivalry. Jousting tournaments often attracted crowds and were associated with honor and valiant deeds.

Synonyms

charge, contest, tilt

Examples of usage

  • The knights prepared to joust at the tournament.
  • They joust to demonstrate their bravery and skill.
  • During the festival, the knights will joust for the queen's favor.
Context #2 | Noun

medieval sport

A joust is a competitive event in which two knights on horseback fight against each other using lances. It was often held as part of tournaments and required not only physical skill but also strategy and bravery. Jousts were closely tied to medieval chivalry and were a way for knights to earn fame and recognition.

Synonyms

match, tilt, tournament

Examples of usage

  • The joust at the castle drew spectators from miles around.
  • He won the joust, earning the title of champion.
  • History books describe elaborate jousts that took place in royal courts.

Translations

Translations of the word "joust" in other languages:

🇵🇹 justar

🇮🇳 जुस्त (एक प्रकार की प्रतियोगिता)

🇩🇪 turnier

🇮🇩 berjoust

🇺🇦 турнір

🇵🇱 turniej

🇯🇵 騎士の試合

🇫🇷 joute

🇪🇸 justa

🇹🇷 turnuva

🇰🇷 창과의 대결

🇸🇦 مبارزة

🇨🇿 turnaj

🇸🇰 turnaj

🇨🇳 比武

🇸🇮 turnir

🇮🇸 riddarakeppni

🇰🇿 жекпе-жек

🇬🇪 ჯარიმა

🇦🇿 döyüş

🇲🇽 justa

Etymology

The word 'joust' originates from the Old French word 'joustier', which means 'to engage in battle' or 'to contend'. This itself comes from the Latin 'juxtare', meaning 'to join' or 'to meet'. The term began to be used in English around the 13th century, particularly in reference to the tournaments and contests of skill held by knights during the medieval era. Jousting became a formalized sport with specific rules and was often associated with the medieval code of chivalry, which governed the conduct of knights. The popularity of jousting peaked during the 14th and 15th centuries, as grand tournaments were held in courts throughout Europe. Over time, the practice began to decline with the advent of new forms of combat and the changing nature of warfare.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,035 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.