crossbow

[kraws-boh, kros-]

noun

1. a medieval weapon consisting of a bow fixed transversely on a stock having a trigger mechanism to release the bowstring, and often incorporating or accompanied by a mechanism for bending the bow.

crossbow

/ ˈkrɒsˌbəʊ /

noun

1. a type of medieval bow fixed transversely on a wooden stock grooved to direct a square-headed arrow (quarrel)

Other Word Forms

• crossbowman noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crossbow¹

First recorded in 1400–50, crossbow is from the late Middle English word crossbowe. See cross, bow ²

Example Sentences

At the time, officers seized six air weapons, a samurai sword, three crossbows and bolts, six knives and a stun gun.

From BBC

King, a former computer worker, of School Close, Downley, shot repeatedly at officers with a crossbow out of his upstairs window before chasing them with the weapon and shooting an officer, the court was told.

From BBC

Other farmers have told the BBC about joyriders high on drugs driving off in their tractors and pigs being killed with crossbows.

From BBC

When Hannah returned later, he shot her with the crossbow too.

From BBC

Police also seized throwing stars, machetes, crossbows and air weapons, and almost 1,000 rounds.

From BBC

Related Words

• ammunition 
• bomb 
• cannon 
• firearm 
• gun 
• knife 
• machete 
• machine gun 
• missile 
• nerve gas 
• pistol 
• revolver 
• rifle 
• shotgun 
• sword 
• tear gas