Mace: meaning, definitions and examples

Mace is often referred to as a medieval weapon with a heavy head on a solid shaft used for bludgeoning, associated with knights and battles during the Middle Ages. It can also mean a ceremonial staff used by certain officials.

• The knight wielded a heavy mace during the battle.
• The university rector carried a mace during the graduation ceremony.

Club generally describes a blunt weapon or tool, often a simple stick with a heavier end. It can refer to a primitive weapon or a recreational sports item like a golf club. It also has negative connotations when referring to being beaten.

• The caveman carried a wooden club for protection.
• He hit the golf ball with his club.
• The thieves were armed with clubs.

Flail is a specific type of medieval weapon that consists of a spiked or weighted head connected to a handle with a chain. It can also refer to an agricultural tool for threshing. 'Flailing' can describe uncoordinated movement, often in panic or desperation.

• The warrior's flail swung menacingly in combat.
• Farmers used a flail to separate grains from the husks.
• She was flailing her arms wildly to get his attention.

Maul refers to a large hammer-like tool or weapon used to deliver powerful blows. It often carries a sense of brutal force and can be used figuratively to describe severe criticism or damage.

• The lumberjack used a maul to split the logs.
• The soldiers used mauls to break down the fortress doors.
• The critics absolutely mauled the new movie in their reviews.