WordGarden.ioscimitar
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɪmɪtə/
US
- /ˈsɪmɪtər/
Meanings
Noun
a curved sword, especially one associated with Southwest Asian or North African traditions
Beyond the definition
Imagine a curved sword made for quick, sweeping cuts. That is the picture most people have in mind here. Unlike a straight sword, this blade bends forward in a way that helps with slicing and slashing. It is often linked with the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia, especially in older stories and history. In books and tales of travel or battle, it often appears as a graceful but dangerous weapon.
A scimitar is a type of curved, single-edged sword traditionally associated with the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia. In English, the word is often used as a broad label for several similar curved swords from those regions, rather than for one exact historical design. The name likely came into English through the Italian word scimitarra, probably related to the Persian word shamshir.
Unlike many straight swords that are used for both thrusting and cutting, these curved blades are mainly known for slashing. Their shape helps produce strong sweeping cuts, which made them useful in close combat and from horseback. They were not only weapons. Finely made examples could also show wealth, rank, or fine craftsmanship, with decorated hilts, engraved blades, or other detailed work.
You may meet the word in historical writing, fantasy, adventure stories, or older poems, where it often suggests speed, danger, or an Eastern setting as imagined by the writer. It can also appear in figurative language, where the image of a curved blade suggests something swift, sharp, or forceful.
Today, the word is mostly used in history, literature, games, and fantasy rather than in everyday talk. It still carries a vivid image: a bright curved sword, quick movement, and stories of battle, travel, and legend.
Examples
- 1
Museum display
A jeweled scimitar lay inside the glass case at the museum.
- 2
Film scene
In the film, the prince drew his scimitar and stepped forward.
- 3
Historical art
Old paintings from the region often show riders carrying scimitars.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- scimitarnoun
Forms
- scimitarspluralnoun