machete
UK: məˈʃeti | US: məˈʃɛti
n. a broad, heavy knife used for cutting vegetation or as a weapon
The word "machete" originates from Spanish, where "macho" (meaning "sledgehammer" or "male") was adapted to refer to a blade, combined with the diminutive suffix "-ete." This reflects the tool's function as a smaller, versatile cutting instrument compared to larger blades or axes. The term entered English during colonial exchanges, particularly in contexts involving tropical agriculture or warfare.
The farmer used a machete to clear the dense undergrowth.
In some cultures, the machete is both a tool and a symbolic weapon.
He sharpened his machete before heading into the jungle.
The rebels armed themselves with machetes and rifles.
A rusty machete was found near the abandoned campsite.