otter-spear

A hunter uses an otter-spear to catch an otter in the river.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A spear used for hunting otters: "otter-spear" is a type of spear specifically designed or used for hunting otters, typically aquatic or semi-aquatic mammals. It often features a barbed or multi-pronged head to secure the animal in water.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The fisherman carried an otter-spear for hunting along the riverbank. (A spear used to hunt otters near water.)
  • In historical accounts, the otter-spear was a common tool for controlling otter populations. (A traditional hunting implement for otters.)

Advanced Usage

• "to wield an otter-spear": to use or handle an otter-spear in hunting.

  • The hunter learned to wield an otter-spear with precision in the swift currents. (To use the spear skillfully for otter hunting.)

• "otter-spear head": the pointed, often barbed end of the spear.

  • The otter-spear head was forged from iron to penetrate the otter's thick fur. (The metal tip of the spear.)

Variants and Related Words

• Otter (n): a semiaquatic mammal of the weasel family.

  • The otter swam gracefully before the hunter spotted it. (The animal targeted by the otter-spear.)

• Spear (n): a weapon with a pointed head used for thrusting or throwing.

  • He sharpened the spear before the hunt. (The general category of weapon.)

Synonyms

• Hunting spear: a spear used for hunting any animal.
• Fish spear: a spear designed for catching fish (similar in form but for different prey).

Phrasal Verbs

• Spear out: to thrust or project outward like a spear.
  • The otter-spear was spear out toward the moving shadow in the water. (Thrust forward suddenly.)

Related Idioms

• "a one-trick pony": a person or tool with only one specific use (not directly related, but the otter-spear is highly specialized).
  • The otter-spear is a one-trick pony; it is useless for hunting deer. (It serves only one purpose.)