seconde
Definition
- Noun (Fencing):
- A defensive stance or parry in fencing: "seconde" refers to a specific position or guard in the art of swordsmanship, where the blade is held low and to the side to protect the lower body and deflect attacks.
- The second of the eight primary fencing parries: It is one of the standard defensive moves, typically used to block thrusts aimed at the lower torso or legs.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The fencer adopted a strong seconde to block the opponent's low lunge. (A defensive stance to protect the lower body.)
- In classical fencing, the seconde parry is often followed by a riposte to the flank. (A specific defensive move in fencing technique.)
Advanced Usage
"to parry in seconde": to execute a defensive move using the seconde guard.
- She parried in seconde and immediately counterattacked. (She used the seconde position to block and then struck back.)
"seconde position": the stance or guard associated with this parry.
- The instructor demonstrated the seconde position with the blade angled downward. (The specific body and blade alignment for this guard.)
Variants and Related Words
- Second (n): the ordinal number following first; also, a unit of time. (Note: "seconde" is a distinct fencing term, not a variant of "second" in general usage.)
- Parry (n/v): a defensive action in fencing to deflect an opponent's blade.
- A well-timed parry can turn the tide of a bout. (A defensive move in fencing.)
- Guard (n): a defensive position in fencing.
- The fencer returned to a neutral guard after the attack. (A basic stance.)
Synonyms
- Parry: a defensive move in fencing.
- Guard: a protective stance or position.
- Defense: a blocking action against an attack.
Phrasal Verbs
- None common for "seconde" as it is a specialized noun.
Related Idioms
- "to be on the seconde": to be in a defensive posture (rare, fencing-specific).
- He was on the seconde, waiting for an opening. (He was in a defensive stance, ready to counter.)