javelin
UK[ˈdʒæv.lɪn]US[ˈdʒæv.lɪn]
n
a light spear thrown in a competitive sport or as a weapon.
Etymology
the word 'javelin' entered english in the late 15th century from middle french 'javeline', a diminutive form of 'javelot', which denoted a spear. the french term likely has celtic origins, possibly from a language like old irish 'gabul' meaning 'fork' or 'branch', which could metaphorically refer to the shaft of the spear. this etymological journey reflects the weapon's design—a long, pointed shaft—and its transition from a tool of warfare to a standardized item in athletic field events. the meaning has remained remarkably consistent, preserving the core concept of a light throwing spear.
Analysis
this word is a loanword adopted as a single, unsegmentable unit into english.
Examples
she won a gold medal in the javelin throw at the olympics.
ancient warriors often carried a javelin into battle.
he practiced for hours to improve his javelin technique.