hilt
UK: hɪlt | US: hɪlt
n. the handle of a weapon or tool, especially a sword or dagger
The word "hilt" traces back to Old English hilt or hilte, meaning "handle of a sword." It is derived from Proto-Germanic *heltą, which shares roots with Old Norse hjalt and Old High German helza. The term has remained remarkably consistent in form and meaning across Germanic languages, reflecting its functional importance in weaponry. As a monomorphic word, it does not break down further into separable morphemes in modern English.
The warrior gripped the hilt of his sword tightly before charging into battle.
The ornate hilt was decorated with intricate silver engravings.
She unsheathed the dagger, her fingers tracing the worn leather of the hilt.
The museum displayed a medieval sword with a jewel-encrusted hilt.
A loose hilt can make a weapon dangerous to wield.