VocabDictionary

broadsword

/ˈbrɔːdsɔːrd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A sword with a broad, straight, double- or single-edged cutting blade, frequently fitted with a basket hilt.

Example Sentences:
  • The Highland warrior drew his basket-hilted broadsword and braced for the cavalry charge.
  • Unlike the delicate civilian rapier, the broadsword was designed to deliver powerful, armor-denting slashes on the battlefield.
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English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “broadsword”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Formed as a compound of the Old English 'brād' (broad, wide) and 'sweord' (sword). The term emerged prominently in the late 16th and 17th centuries to distinguish traditional wide-bladed, edge-focused military cutting swords (such as the Scottish basket-hilted sword) from the emerging, slender thrusting blades like the rapier and smallsword.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a sword with a 'broad' (wide) blade meant for heavy slashing, the opposite of a thin fencing rapier.

Frequently Asked Questions About “broadsword

1. What is the meaning of “broadsword” in English?

In English, broadsword (noun) is defined as: “A sword with a broad, straight, double- or single-edged cutting blade, frequently fitted with a basket hilt.”.

2. How do you use “broadsword” in a sentence?

The Highland warrior drew his basket-hilted broadsword and braced for the cavalry charge.

3. What are English synonyms of “broadsword”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “broadsword”?

Formed as a compound of the Old English 'brād' (broad, wide) and 'sweord' (sword). The term emerged prominently in the late 16th and 17th centuries to distinguish traditional wide-bladed, edge-focused military cutting swords (such as the Scottish basket-hilted sword) from the emerging, slender thrusting blades like the rapier and smallsword.