Definition

1. Noun:
   • A protective case or sheath, typically made of leather or metal, designed to hold the blade of a sword, dagger, or bayonet when it is not in use.

Usage

• The primary function of a scabbard is to protect the blade from damage and to allow for safe carrying.
• It is a specific type of sheath for bladed weapons, not for other tools like knives or scissors.
• The word is used to describe the object itself.

Examples

• The soldier slid his sword back into its scabbard.
• An ornate scabbard hung from the knight's belt.
• The museum displayed a 15th-century sword alongside its original leather scabbard.

Advanced Usage

• "To throw (or fling) away the scabbard": An idiom meaning to commit fully to a fight or conflict, indicating there is no intention to sheathe the weapon again until the matter is settled. It signifies a declaration of war or an unwavering resolve.
  • By issuing that ultimatum, the king has thrown away the scabbard.

Variants and Related Words

• Sheath (n): A more general term for a close-fitting cover for a blade or tool. A scabbard is a type of sheath specifically for swords, daggers, and bayonets.
• Holster (n): A sheath or case for a pistol or revolver, worn on a belt.

Synonyms

• Sheath
• Case
• Cover

Idioms

• To throw/fling away the scabbard: To show a determined intention to fight to the finish; to refuse to compromise or back down.
  • The negotiations failed, and both sides have thrown away the scabbard.

Noun

1. a sheath for a sword or dagger or bayonet