lance

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a long pointed rod used as a tool or weapon
noun an implement with a shaft and barbed point used for catching fish
noun a surgical knife with a pointed double-edged blade; used for punctures and small incisions

From Middle English launce, from Old French lance, from Latin lancea.

Erec went at them lance in rest. — Four Arthurian Romances, de Troyes, active 12th century Chrétien
I do not know how to ask save at the lance’s point. — Kim, Rudyard Kipling
The lances were thrown away now, and with axe and mace each fought for himself. — Winning His Spurs: A Tale of the Crusades, G. A. (George Alfred) Henty

spear, shaft

Type a word, a sentence, a book title, or a link to an English article. WordNet and the Classics answer.

Try

A library of classics · a vault of words · instant etymology & meaning