javelin

noun

ˈjav-lən
Definition of javelinnext
as in spear
a weapon with a long straight handle and sharp head or blade from atop his horse the warrior hurled a javelin that pierced the chest of his hapless foe

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of javelin Nebraska's Dyson Wicker won the pole vault at an NCAA-leading 19-2 1/4, and Texas A&M senior Zaza Nnamdi took javelin at 269-10. — ABC News, 11 June 2026 In the girls field events, South Hadley’s Natalie Rios threw her personal best and achieved third best javelin throw in the state at 125-04. — Hannah Hughes, Boston Herald, 7 June 2026 Sergei Bubka of the Soviet Union breaks his world outdoor pole vault record and Seppo Raty of Finland smashes the world javelin record during the Toto International Super Track and Field Meet in Japan. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 6 May 2026 At the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the gold medal javelin throw was about 5% shy of Jan Železný’s 1996 record. — R. Alexander Bentley, The Conversation, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for javelin
Recent Examples of Synonyms for javelin
  1. spear
  2. lance
Noun
  • The authors said that Shanidar A’s wound may be the earliest example of an ancient human relative killed with a wooden spear.
    — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Remnants of a wooden spear weren’t found near the Neanderthal’s remains, which is understandable since the material often decomposes so quickly.
    — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of spear
Noun
  • In the end, director Duong, recognizing Aunt Hanh’s residual indignation, lances that boil.
    — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Additionally, objects of cultural patrimony such as five pairs of moccasins, one coupstick, one Cheyenne cradle board and one lance were returned in the ceremony.
    — News Desk, Artforum, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of lance

Browse Nearby Words

jaunty
javelin
javelins
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Cite this Entry

“Javelin.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/javelin. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on javelin

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about javelin

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