kris

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kris

A museum curator carefully displays a kris in a glass case.

Definition

Noun: 1. A Malayan dagger with a wavy blade: A traditional dagger or short sword originating from Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia, characterized by its distinctive wavy, flame-like blade.

Usage

The word "kris" is used to refer specifically to this type of ceremonial and combat weapon. It is often discussed in contexts of anthropology, history, martial arts, and material culture. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., a kris, two krises/kris). - It is often preceded by descriptive adjectives related to its origin, design, or purpose.

Examples
  • The museum's collection features an ornate kris from the 18th century.
  • Traditionally, a kris was believed to possess spiritual power.
  • He studied the craftsmanship involved in forging the wavy blade of the kris.
Advanced Usage
  • Cultural Artifact: The kris is not merely a weapon but a spiritual object and status symbol in many Austronesian cultures.
  • Ritual Use: A kris might be used in ceremonies, weddings, or as a sacred heirloom ().
Variants and Related Words
  • Kris (alternative spelling: keris): The more precise spelling based on the original Javanese and Indonesian is often "keris," though "kris" is common in English.
  • Dagger: A general term for a short, pointed knife used for stabbing.
  • Poniard: A synonym for a small dagger.
Synonyms
  • Dagger
  • Poniard
  • Short sword (contextual)
Related Phrases / Idioms

There are no common English idioms or phrasal verbs using the word "kris." Its usage is primarily literal and descriptive.

kris

A museum curator carefully displays a kris in a glass case.

Noun
  1. a Malayan dagger with a wavy blade