bowshot

bowshot

An archer stands just beyond bowshot of the target.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The distance an arrow can be shot from a bow: "bowshot" refers to the range or distance that an arrow can travel when shot from a bow. It is often used metaphorically to indicate a relatively short but measurable distance.
    • A single shot from a bow: In some contexts, "bowshot" can also mean the act of shooting an arrow from a bow, or the arrow itself as a projectile.
Usage Examples
  • (The deer was at a distance that could be reached by an arrow from a bow.)
  • (The castle was at a distance approximately equal to the range of an arrow shot.)
  • (He shot a single arrow from his bow.)
Advanced Usage
  • "within bowshot": within the range that an arrow can be shot.

    • The enemy camp was within bowshot of our position. (The enemy camp was close enough to be hit by arrows.)
  • "out of bowshot": beyond the range of an arrow.

    • The retreating army was soon out of bowshot. (The army moved too far away for arrows to reach them.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Bow (n): a weapon for shooting arrows, typically made of a curved piece of wood or other flexible material.

    • He strung his bow and prepared to hunt. (He attached the string to his bow.)
  • Shot (n): the act of firing a projectile; the range or distance of a projectile.

    • The cannon shot carried for miles. (The cannonball travelled a long distance.)
Synonyms
  • Arrow range: the distance an arrow can travel.
  • Bow range: the effective distance of a bow.
Related Idioms
  • A bowshot away: a short distance, roughly the length of an arrow's flight.

    • The village is a bowshot away from the forest. (The village is very close to the forest.)
  • Within a bowshot of: very close to; within a short distance.

    • The inn was within a bowshot of the main road. (The inn was very near the main road.)