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backsword

American  
[bak-sawrd, -sohrd] / ˈbækˌsɔrd, -ˌsoʊrd /

noun

  1. a sword with only one sharp edge; broadsword.

  2. (formerly) a cudgel having a basket hilt, used in fencing exhibitions.

  3. a backswordman.


backsword British  
/ ˈbækˌsɔːd /

noun

  1. another name for broadsword

  2. Also called: backswordsman.  a person who uses the backsword

  3. a fencing stick with a basket-like protective hilt

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of backsword

First recorded in 1590–1600; back 1 + sword

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In old times there was, to a certain extent—in the days when each village was divided against its neighbour, and fiercely contested with it the honour of sending forth the best backsword player.

From Project Gutenberg

An ye think I be no true man, get down upon the path, and whether at fists, backsword, or bow and arrow, I will prove my manhood on your body.”

From Project Gutenberg

His weapon was, I believe, not the rapier, but the backsword, of which he recommends the use in his book on education.

From Project Gutenberg

My backsword play hath been thought well of by stout men of war.

From Project Gutenberg

Then tossed he the pike, played with the two-handed sword, with the backsword, with the Spanish tuck, the dagger, poniard, armed, unarmed, with a buckler, with a cloak, with a target.

From Project Gutenberg