English Explanatory Dictionary

crossbow

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A mechanised weapon, based on the bow and arrow, that shoots bolts.
  2. A portable ballista that can be held in the hand.

Pronunciation

/ˈkɹɒsbəʊ/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-crossbow.wav

Word forms

crossbow crossbows cross-bow xbow

Etymology

From Middle English crosbowe, crossebowe, equivalent to cross + bow.

Related words

bolt quarrel ballista arbalest bow

Derived words

bullet-shooting crossbow crossbower crossbowman crossbowwoman crossbowsman
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