spear-thrower

American  

[speer-throh-er] / ˈspɪərˌθroʊ ər /

noun

Anthropology.

1. a flexible device for launching a spear, usually a short cord wound around the spear so that when thrown the weapon will rotate in the air.

2. Also called atlatl.  a rigid device for increasing the speed and distance of a spear when thrown, usually a flat wooden stick with a handhold and a peg or socket to accommodate the butt end of the spear.

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Etymology

Origin of spear-thrower

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

He was probably a right-handed spear-thrower, judging from the oversized bones in his right arm and leg.

From New York Times • Jun. 18, 2015

But it is quite otherwise with his spear-thrower or his bull-roarer.

From Anthropology by Marett, R. R. (Robert Ranulph)

To cure toothache some of the Australian blacks apply a heated spear-thrower to the cheek.

From The Golden Bough by Frazer, James George, Sir

In front of them stood a youth of about seventeen, his hand still raised and his body bent forward in the attitude of a Grecian statue of a spear-thrower.

From King Solomon's Mines by Haggard, Henry Rider

The spear-thrower is then cast away, and the toothache goes with it in the shape of a black stone called karriitch.

From The Golden Bough by Frazer, James George, Sir