spear
UK: spɪə | US: spɪr
n. a weapon with a pointed tip, typically thrown or thrust
vt. to pierce or strike with a spear
The word "spear" traces back to Old English spere, derived from Proto-Germanic sperō. It shares roots with Old Norse spjör and Old High German sper, all referring to a thrusting or throwing weapon. The term has remained remarkably stable in form and meaning across Germanic languages, reflecting its ancient role in hunting and warfare. As a monomorphic word, it cannot be further divided into smaller meaningful units in modern English.
The hunter threw his spear at the charging boar.
Ancient warriors often carried both a sword and a spear.
She speared a piece of fruit with her fork.
The museum displayed a collection of bronze-age spears.
In some cultures, spearing fish is a traditional fishing method.