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Synonyms

crossbow

American  
[kraws-boh, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˌboʊ, ˈkrɒs- /

noun

  1. a medieval weapon consisting of a bow fixed transversely on a stock having a trigger mechanism to release the bowstring, and often incorporating or accompanied by a mechanism for bending the bow.


crossbow British  
/ ˈkrɒsˌbəʊ /

noun

  1. a type of medieval bow fixed transversely on a wooden stock grooved to direct a square-headed arrow (quarrel)

"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

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of crossbow

First recorded in 1400–50, crossbow is from the late Middle English word crossbowe. See cross, bow 2

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.

Federal officials also executed three search warrants, which resulted in the discovery of more than 30 firearms and a crossbow at two of the locations, Remily said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Officials said they have recovered more than 30 guns and a crossbow in connection with the investigation.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

On March 27, Benjamin Grayson, the deputy chief of staff at the Small Business Administration, sent an email to Samuel Scales, a United States Trade Representative staffer, concerning a Florida-based crossbow manufacturer, Barnett Crossbows.

From Salon • Sep. 18, 2025

He added: "If the government does licence crossbow ownership, we would work with them to assist clubs in supporting any legal requirements to enable disabled and older people to remain active."

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2025

“I wouldn’t mind a crossbow right about now.”

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss

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