crossbow

[ kraws-boh, kros- ]
/ ˈkrɔsˌboʊ, ˈkrɒs- /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR crossbow ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

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.

Origin of crossbow

First recorded in 1400–50, crossbow is from the late Middle English word crossbowe. See cross, bow2

Words nearby crossbow

crossbirth, crossbite, crossbody, crossbolt lock, crossbones, crossbow, crossbowman, crossbred, crossbreed, crossbuck, crosscheck

Words related to crossbow

pistol, bomb, sword, gun, missile, cannon, rifle, machete, ammunition, firearm, knife, shotgun, revolver, catapult, dagger, spear, bayonet, ax, bludgeon, spike

Example sentences from the Web for crossbow

British Dictionary definitions for crossbow

crossbow
/ (ˈkrɒsˌbəʊ) /

noun

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

Derived forms of crossbow

crossbowman, noun