Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of bow drawn by hand: A handbow is a bow that is drawn and operated using the strength of the archer's arm and hand, as opposed to a crossbow, which uses a mechanical mechanism.

Usage

• The term "handbow" is used to specify a traditional, handheld bow in contexts where it is necessary to distinguish it from other types of bows, particularly crossbows. It is a precise, technical term.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The museum's collection includes a medieval handbow and a steel crossbow.
  • For traditional archery, many prefer the simplicity of a handbow over modern compound bows.

Advanced Usage

• The word is primarily used in historical, military, or archery-specific discussions to create a clear distinction. It is not a common term in everyday conversation.
  • In his thesis on medieval warfare, he detailed the tactical differences between the long-range crossbow and the faster-firing handbow.

Variants and Related Words

• Bow (n): The general term for the weapon. A "handbow" is a specific type of bow.
• Longbow (n): A specific tall type of handbow.
• Recurve bow (n): A type of handbow where the limbs curve away from the archer.

Synonyms

• Longbow (though this specifies a shape, not all handbows are longbows)
• Traditional bow

Antonyms

• Crossbow (n): A bow mounted on a stock that shoots projectiles, typically drawn with a mechanical aid.

Noun

1. a bow drawn by hand as distinguished from a crossbow