javelin

/ˈdʒæv(ə)lən/

/ˈdʒævəlɪn/

Other forms: javelins

A javelin is a sharp-tipped, lightweigh throwing spear that's used in sporting events. The javelin throw is an event in the Olympics.

Historically, the javelin was used as a weapon. African and Zulu tribes have used javelins, as well as Welsh fighters and ancient Roman Empire and Anglo-Saxon soldiers. More recently, javelins are simply thrown for sport. The Middle French javeline is a diminutive form of the Old French javelot, or "spear." The ultimate root is probably the Proto-Indo-European word ghabholo, "a fork or branch of a tree."

Definitions of javelin

1. noun

   a spear thrown as a weapon or in competitive field events
   type of:

   lance, shaft, spear

   a long pointed rod used as a tool or weapon

   sports equipment

   equipment needed to participate in a particular sport
2. noun

   an athletic competition in which a javelin is thrown as far as possible
   type of:

   field event

   a competition that takes place on a field rather than on a running track