bilbo

A knight draws his bilbo from its scabbard.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of sword: "bilbo" refers to a finely tempered sword, historically associated with Bilbao, Spain, known for its quality and flexibility.
   • A shackle or fetters: In historical contexts, "bilbo" can also denote a long iron bar or fetter used to confine prisoners, often attached to a chain.

Usage Examples

• Sword:

  • The knight drew his bilbo, admiring its elegant curve and sharp edge. (A high-quality sword from Bilbao.)
  • Collectors prize an antique bilbo for its superior craftsmanship. (A historical sword valued for its quality.)

• Fetters:

  • The prisoners were fastened with bilboes, their ankles locked in iron. (Shackles or fetters used for restraint.)
  • He felt the cold weight of the bilbo around his leg. (A metal restraint device.)

Advanced Usage

• "bilbo" as a proper noun: In literary works, "Bilbo" (capitalized) is the name of a character in J.R.R. Tolkien's , unrelated to the sword meaning.
  • Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who embarks on an adventure. (A fictional character; note: this is a distinct usage from the sword/fetters.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bilboes (n, plural): the shackles or fetters themselves.
  • The ship's captain ordered the mutineers placed in bilboes. (The iron restraints.)

Synonyms

• Sword: blade, rapier, cutlass.
• Shackles: fetters, manacles, irons.

Related Idioms

• None common, but "bilbo" appears in historical contexts like "to put in bilboes" (to confine with shackles).

Phrasal Verbs

• None applicable; "bilbo" is not used as a verb.