Polearm: meaning, definitions and examples

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polearm

[ ˈpoʊlˌɑrm ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medieval warfare weapon

A polearm is a large two-handed weapon, typically used in medieval warfare. It consists of a long pole with a blade or pointed end attached to it. Polearms were popular among foot soldiers and were effective for both cutting and thrusting.

Synonyms

halberd, pike, spear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
polearm	A generic term for any weapon that is mounted on a long shaft. Use this term when you want to talk about this category of weapons in general, without specifying a particular type. Medieval soldiers often used a variety of polearms in battle
spear	A long, pointed weapon used for thrusting or throwing. It is more general and likely the most ancient of these weapons. Use this term when referring to hunting, primitive warfare, or broad historical contexts. The hunter threw his spear at the wild boar
pike	A long spear used by infantry, especially in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. It is typically much longer than a standard spear. Use this term when referring to historical formations of soldiers who used these weapons. The Swiss pikemen were renowned for their discipline and effectiveness in battle
halberd	A weapon with an axe blade topped with a spike and a hook on the back, mounted on a long shaft. Use this term when describing a specific type of polearm that was commonly used in the 14th to 16th centuries. The guards at the castle stood firm with their halberds at the ready

Examples of usage

Polearms such as halberds and pikes were commonly used on the battlefield.
The knight wielded a polearm with great skill and precision.

Translations

Translations of the word "polearm" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arma de haste

🇮🇳 डंडे वाला हथियार

🇩🇪 Stangenwaffe

🇮🇩 senjata tiang

🇺🇦 древкова зброя

🇵🇱 broń drzewcowa

🇯🇵 槍（やり）

🇫🇷 arme d'hast

🇪🇸 arma de asta

🇹🇷 mızraklı silah

🇰🇷 장병기

🇸🇦 سلاح ذو رمح

🇨🇿 tyčová zbraň

🇸🇰 drevná zbraň

🇨🇳 长柄武器

🇸🇮 sulično orožje

🇮🇸 stangarvopn

🇰🇿 садақ қаруы

🇬🇪 სასულიე იარაღი

🇦🇿 nizə silahı

🇲🇽 arma de asta

Etymology

The term 'polearm' originated in the late 15th century, combining 'pole' (referring to the long shaft) and 'arm' (referring to a weapon). Polearms have been used throughout history in various forms and have played a significant role in medieval warfare.