arrow
UK: ˈær.əʊ | US: ˈær.oʊ
n. a thin, straight, pointed weapon shot from a bow
n. a symbol (→) used to indicate direction or movement
n. a straight, narrow shape resembling the weapon
The word "arrow" traces back to Old English arwe or earh, derived from Proto-Germanic arhwō. Its connection to the Proto-Indo-European root arkw- (meaning "bow") suggests a logical evolution: the weapon (arrow) is intrinsically linked to its launcher (bow). Over time, the spelling simplified to "arrow," while retaining its core meaning of a projectile. The directional symbol later borrowed the name due to its pointed, linear form.
The archer aimed the arrow at the target.
Follow the red arrow to exit the building.
A flock of birds scattered like arrows across the sky.
The diagram uses arrows to show data flow.
Ancient hunters relied on arrows for survival.