Definition

Noun: 1. A straight sword with a narrow blade and two edges: A rapier is a slender, sharply pointed sword designed primarily for thrusting attacks, historically used in Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It is characterized by its long, straight blade, complex hilt for hand protection, and its association with civilian dueling and fencing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The museum displayed a beautifully crafted 17th-century rapier.
  • In the duel, he skillfully parried with his rapier.
  • Fencing with a rapier requires precision and agility.

Advanced Usage

• "Rapier wit": This is a common metaphorical phrase describing a person's ability to make very quick, sharp, and clever remarks or criticisms.
  • Her rapier wit left her opponents speechless during the debate.

Variants and Related Words

• Rapier-like (adj): Resembling a rapier, especially in being sharp, slender, or penetrating.
  • He made a rapier-like thrust of his argument.

Synonyms

• Smallsword: A lighter, shorter descendant of the rapier, popular in the 18th century.
• Epee: A modern fencing weapon derived from the dueling sword, similar in its thrusting technique.

Related Phrases

• To wield a rapier: To use or handle a rapier skillfully. This can be used literally or figuratively to describe using sharp intellect.
  • The diplomat wielded his words like a rapier.

Noun

1. a straight sword with a narrow blade and two edges