Definition

Noun: - The head and sharpened point of a spear: This refers to the complete, typically metal, piercing end of a spear, which includes both the pointed tip and the broader head or blade designed for penetration.

Usage

The term "spear-point" is used to describe the business end of a spear, focusing on its function as a weapon or tool for thrusting and piercing. It is a specific, often technical term.

Examples

• The archaeologist carefully excavated the ancient spear-point made of flint.
• The warrior sharpened the spear-point before the battle to ensure it would penetrate armor.
• The museum's display featured a collection of bronze-age spear-points.

Advanced Usage

• Terminology in Archaeology and History: In these fields, "spear-point" is a standard term for classifying artifacts. The material (e.g., flint, obsidian, iron) and design of the spear-point help date and understand ancient cultures.
• Descriptive Use: Can be used descriptively to denote something sharp and penetrating.

Variants and Related Words

• Spearhead: While "spearhead" can literally mean the point of a spear, it is far more commonly used as a verb or noun meaning to lead or initiate an attack or campaign (e.g., ). "Spear-point" is more strictly literal.
• Point: A more general term for a sharp, tapered end.
• Tip: Another general term for the end point of an object.

Synonyms

• Spear tip
• Lance head (specifically for a lance, a type of spear)
• Pike head (specifically for a pike, a type of spear)

Notes on Meaning

"Spear-point" is a compound noun. As per the critical instruction, its primary definition is treated above. It is not typically broken into separate meanings for "spear" and "point" in this combined form, as it functions as a single unit referring to the weapon's piercing component.

Noun

1. the head and sharpened point of a spear