javelin Hear it!

javelin definition

jav·elin (jav′lin, jav′ə lin)

noun

  1. a light spear for throwing
  2. in full javelin throw
    1. a pointed wooden or metal shaft, about 8 ft long, thrown for distance as a test of strength and skill
    2. the throwing of the javelin as a field event in track and field meets

Etymology: MFr javeline, fem. dim. < javelot, a spear, prob. < Gaul *gabalaccos < IE base *ghabh(o)lo-, forked branch, fork > OE gafol, Ger gabel

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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