BACK TO rapier

smallsword vs. rapier

[ smawl-sawrd, -sohrd ]
noun
  1. a light, tapering sword for thrusting, formerly used in fencing or dueling.
[ rey-pee-er ]
noun
  1. a small sword, especially of the 18th century, having a narrow blade and used for thrusting.
  2. a longer, heavier sword, especially of the 16th and 17th centuries, having a double-edged blade and used for slashing and thrusting.

Compare More Commonly Confused Words