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Lance: meaning, definitions and examples

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lance

 

[læns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medieval weapon

A lance is a long weapon with a pointed metal head, used by knights on horseback for jousting and in battle.

Synonyms

javelin, spear.

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Word Description / Examples
lance

Often used in a medical context, referring to a sharp instrument used to puncture or make an incision.

  • The doctor used a sterile lance to drain the abscess.
  • He had to have his boil lanced by a professional.
spear

Generally used in a variety of contexts, including historical, hunting, and combat scenarios. Refers to a long, shafted weapon with a pointed tip, used for thrusting or throwing.

  • The hunters carried spears to defend themselves.
  • Ancient warriors were skilled in the use of the spear during battles.
javelin

Commonly used in the context of sports and athletics, referring to a light, spear-like object that is thrown for distance.

  • She won the gold medal in the javelin throw.
  • The coach instructed the athlete on proper javelin technique.

Examples of usage

  • The knight lowered his lance and charged towards his opponent.
  • She grasped the lance tightly as she prepared for the joust.
Context #2 | Noun

medical tool

In modern usage, a lance is a sharp instrument used by medical professionals to make small incisions or puncture wounds.

Synonyms

blade, scalpel.

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Word Description / Examples
lance

This word is often used in historical or fantasy settings to describe a long weapon used by knights or cavalry.

  • The knight carried a lance as he charged into battle.
  • The tournament required each participant to wield a lance during the jousting match.
scalpel

This word is used in medical or surgical contexts to refer to a small and precise cutting instrument used by surgeons.

  • The surgeon inspected the scalpel before making the first incision.
  • A scalpel is essential for performing delicate surgical procedures.
blade

A general term for the cutting part of a knife, sword, or other sharp weapon, it can be used in everyday language or in the context of weaponry.

  • He sharpened the blade of his kitchen knife.
  • The warrior unsheathed his blade, ready for combat.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor used a sterile lance to drain the abscess.
  • She carefully sterilized the lance before making the incision.
Context #3 | Verb

to pierce or cut

To lance means to pierce or cut with a sharp instrument.

Synonyms

cut, pierce.

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Word Description / Examples
lance

Used primarily in a medical or historical context, often referring to a long weapon or a specific medical procedure to release pressure or fluid.

  • The doctor needed to lance the abscess to relieve the patient's pain
  • The knight used his lance during the jousting competition
pierce

Refers to the action of making a hole or penetrating through something, often used in contexts involving sharp objects or sounds.

  • He used a needle to pierce his ear
  • The scream pierced the night, startling everyone
cut

Used in everyday situations to describe the act of slicing or severing something with a sharp object. It can also be used metaphorically.

  • She used a knife to cut the vegetables
  • His remark cut deep into her feelings

Examples of usage

  • The surgeon lanced the boil to release the pus.
  • He carefully lanced the blister to relieve the pressure.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'lancea', which means 'spear', highlighting its long-standing use in combat.
  • Lances were prominently used in medieval tournaments, especially in jousting, showcasing knights' skills and bravery.
  • This weapon played a significant role in the military of many cultures, including the Romans and the feudal knights of Europe.

Literature

  • Lances are often depicted in chivalric romances and stories about knights, symbolizing honor and courage.
  • Renowned literary figures like Sir Lancelot embody the characteristics associated with lances, emphasizing the themes of bravery and loyalty.

Pop Culture

  • In popular video games, such as 'The Legend of Zelda', characters often wield lances to battle foes.
  • The lance has made appearances in many films portraying medieval settings, showcasing the dramatic jousting scenes that define knightly combat.

Science

  • In modern medicine, the term 'lance' is also used to describe a tool for puncturing skin to obtain blood samples, known as a lancing device.
  • The principles of aerodynamics apply when designing lances for sports, such as in javelin throw, to maximize distance and accuracy.

Psychology

  • The act of using a lance in historical contexts often required immense courage, influencing how societies view bravery and heroism.
  • Lance-wielding competitions in modern sports can evoke feelings of teamwork, competition, and the thrills of defending one's honor, reflecting psychological aspects of rivalry.

Translations

Translations of the word "lance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lança

🇮🇳 भाला

🇩🇪 Lanze

🇮🇩 tombak

🇺🇦 спис

🇵🇱 włócznia

🇯🇵 槍 (やり)

🇫🇷 lance

🇪🇸 lanza

🇹🇷 mızrak

🇰🇷 창

🇸🇦 رمح

🇨🇿 kopí

🇸🇰 kopija

🇨🇳 长矛 (cháng máo)

🇸🇮 sulica

🇮🇸 spjót

🇰🇿 найза

🇬🇪 შუბი

🇦🇿 nizə

🇲🇽 lanza

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,263, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.