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Pommelled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pommelled

[ˈpɒml ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical attack

Pommelled refers to the action of striking someone repeatedly with the pommel of a sword or similar object. This term is often used in the context of combat or fighting, where an assailant uses the hilt or pommel of a weapon to deliver blunt force blows, taking advantage of the weight and sturdiness of that part of the weapon.

Synonyms

battered, bludgeoned, struck.

Examples of usage

  • He was pommelled by the assailant in a sudden attack.
  • The knight pommelled his opponent with swift strikes.
  • The burglar was caught when the homeowner pommelled him with a heavy object.
  • In the fight, he resorted to pommeling his attacker to gain control.
  • During the duel, one combatant was pommelled to the ground.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Martial Arts

  • In various martial arts, the act of pommelling can refer to inflicting strikes or blows in combat.
  • The technique aims to exhaust or overpower an opponent by delivering swift, repeated hits.
  • Historical fencing manuals often emphasize the importance of pommel techniques for both offensive and defensive strategies.

Cultural References

  • The act of being pommelled can symbolize struggle or conflict in literature, often depicting a character's fight against adversity.
  • In artwork depicting battles or duels, pommelled stances showcase the agility and skill of warriors.
  • Modern films and video games often reference the act of being struck, enhancing the drama of a fight scene, linking to old traditions.

Psychology

  • Striking or pommelling in dreams can indicate feelings of aggression or conflict that one is currently facing in waking life.
  • Some psychologists suggest that repetitive motions, like pommelling, may be linked to stress-releasing behaviors, akin to hitting a punching bag.
  • A study found that physical expression of pent-up frustrations through repetitive striking can provide emotional relief and clarity.

Historical Warfare

  • In historical battles, the technique of pommelling was essential for swordsmen to dominate the battlefield.
  • Centuries ago, knights often relied on pommel strikes to disarm opponents or break their defense during close combat.
  • The design of many ancient weapons included pommels not just for style but also to enhance their effectiveness in battle.

Origin of 'pommelled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the word 'pommel', which refers to the rounded end of a sword guard.
  • Originally, it derived from the Old French 'pommel', which means 'little apple', hinting at its rounded shape.
  • In medieval times, pommels were often used for balance in swords, making them essential for combat.

The word 'pommelled' derives from the noun 'pommel', which refers to the rounded knob on the hilt of a sword or a similar object. The term 'pommel' comes from the Old French 'pomel', which means 'little apple', a reference to the shape of this part of the sword. The action of pommeling thus evolved from this component's use as a blunt weapon, emphasizing the function over the ornate nature of the sword. The practice of using the pommel for striking in combat settings has roots in historical martial arts, specifically during the medieval period when knights and combatants often engaged in close quarter battles. Over time, 'pommelled' has retained its martial connotation, frequently appearing in literature and accounts of combat.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,336, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.