Definition

1. Noun:

   • A long, pointed weapon: A pole weapon consisting of a long shaft with a sharp, often metal, point at one end, used historically for thrusting or throwing in hunting and warfare.
   • A similar tool for fishing: A long, slender implement with a barbed point, used for catching fish by thrusting or throwing.

2. Verb:

   • To pierce or strike with a spear: To thrust a spear or similar pointed object into something.
   • To rise or project sharply: To extend or point upward in a straight, sharp line, resembling a spear.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The ancient warrior carried a bronze-tipped spear.
  • He used a spear to catch fish in the shallow river.

• Verb:

  • The hunter speared the wild boar with great skill.
  • New skyscrapers spear the city's skyline.

Advanced Usage

• "To spearhead" (verb): To lead or initiate an attack, movement, or project. (Note: This is a distinct compound verb; the core action relates to being at the forefront, like the point of a spear).

  • She was chosen to spearhead the new marketing campaign.

• "Spear carrier" (noun): A person who plays a minor or insignificant role, originally referring to an actor with a non-speaking part as a soldier carrying a spear.

  • He started his career as a spear carrier in the opera.

Variants and Related Words

• Spearman (noun): A person, especially a soldier, who uses a spear.
• Spearpoint (noun): The sharp, pointed end of a spear.
• Spearfishing (noun): The activity of fishing using a spear, typically while swimming underwater.

Synonyms

• Noun (weapon): Lance, javelin, pike, harpoon (for fishing).
• Verb (to pierce): Impale, skewer, stab, transfix.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(The word 'spear' itself does not commonly form phrasal verbs. The action is typically direct: "spear something.")

Related Idioms

• "The spear side": An archaic term referring to the male side or line of a family (contrasted with "the distaff/spindle side" for the female line).
  • The title was inherited through the spear side of the family.

Noun

1. an implement with a shaft and barbed point used for catching fish
2. a long pointed rod used as a tool or weapon

Verb

1. thrust up like a spear
   • The branch speared up into the air
2. pierce with a spear
   • spear fish