bayonet
UK: ˈbeɪənɪt | US: ˈbeɪənɪt
n. a blade adapted to fit the muzzle of a rifle and used as a weapon in close combat
vt. to stab or kill with a bayonet
bayonet = bayon<dagger> + et<diminutive suffix>
- bayon (from French baïonnette, originally referring to a dagger from Bayonne, France)
- et (diminutive suffix in French, indicating a smaller or derived form)
Etymology Origin:
The word bayonet traces back to the early 17th century, named after the city of Bayonne in southwestern France, where these daggers were first used by soldiers. The suffix -et gives it a diminutive sense, reflecting its evolution from a standalone dagger to a smaller blade attached to a rifle. The story highlights how place names can embed themselves in military terminology.
The soldier fixed his bayonet to the rifle before charging.
During the battle, they were forced to bayonet the enemy at close range.
The museum displayed a collection of antique bayonets.
Bayonet training was a crucial part of infantry drills.
He narrowly avoided being bayoneted in the trench warfare.