Tomahawked - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

throwing weapon

Tomahawked is the past tense of tomahawk, which refers to the act of throwing a tomahawk, a type of hand-held axe traditionally used by Indigenous peoples of North America. When someone is said to have tomahawked something, it implies that they have thrown the axe with force or precision. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe striking with great effectiveness or decisiveness. It evokes imagery of traditional combat or hunting practices.

Synonyms

cast, flung, threw.

Examples of usage

He tomahawked the axe into the log with impressive accuracy.
The player tomahawked the ball over the fence.
She tomahawked the opponent during the wrestling match.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

The tomahawk is a symbol of Native American culture, often representing bravery and warrior spirit.
In contemporary sports, teams like the Atlanta Braves use a 'tomahawk chop' as a cheer, raising discussions about cultural appropriation.
In films and media, the use of a tomahawk often symbolizes ruggedness and survival, cementing its place in popular culture.

Literature

The term has appeared in various novels and stories, particularly those focusing on colonial America, illustrating conflict and cultural interactions.
In post-apocalyptic stories, characters might use a 'tomahawked' approach to signify brutal and quick action against an opponent.
Poets often use the imagery of blades or axes to convey themes of struggle and resolution, invoking the concept of being 'tomahawked' metaphorically.

Historical Context

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the tomahawk was regarded not just as a weapon but also as a tool for trade and everyday life among Indigenous peoples.
Tomahawk throwing became a competitive sport in several Native communities, highlighting both skill and cultural traditions.
The phrase has been used in military terminology to describe aerial bombardments evoking the swift and decisive nature of a strike.

Pop Culture

In action films, characters often 'tomahawk' their enemies, portraying a sense of heroism and decisive action.
Video games frequently feature tomahawks as weapons, allowing players to execute strategic moves against foes.
The use of tomahawks in modern combat training demonstrates their continued relevance as both a historical tool and a contemporary weapon.

Origin of 'tomahawked'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from 'tomahawk,' which refers to a type of axe used by Native Americans, symbolizing strength and precision.
The term gained popularity during the American colonial period, where it was associated with both Native American and colonial warfare.
In modern slang, 'tomahawked' can also mean taking swift, decisive action—similar to the function of the tool itself.

The term 'tomahawk' is derived from the Algonquian word 'tamahaac', which referred to a type of axe used by Native American tribes. Early European settlers and explorers used the word to describe the weapon as they encountered it among Indigenous peoples. The tomahawk was not only a tool for chopping wood but also served as a weapon in warfare and hunting. Its design has evolved over the centuries, incorporating metal and other materials. Today, 'tomahawking' can refer to both the physical act of throwing a tomahawk or metaphorical uses in sports and other competitive contexts, reflecting decisiveness and strength.

Tomahawked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations