alpenstock

[ al-puhn-stok ]

noun

1. a strong staff with an iron point, used by mountain climbers.

alpenstock

/ ˈælpənˌstɒk /

noun

1. an early form of ice axe, consisting of a stout stick with an iron tip and sometimes having a pick and adze at the head, formerly used by mountain climbers

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpenstock¹

1820–30; < German, equivalent to Alpen Alps + Stock staff

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpenstock¹

C19: from German, from Alpen Alps + Stock stick ¹

Example Sentences

Alpenstock, alp′n-stok, n. a long stick or staff used by travellers in climbing the Alps.

From Project Gutenberg

But the ant makes his long excursion with neither alpenstock nor luncheon, and without sleeping or even resting on the way.

From Project Gutenberg

Soon he had them packed and strapped to his back and was trudging in happy mood down the mountain, alpenstock in hand.

From Project Gutenberg

The guide went first, driving the horse before him, and Rollo followed, with his alpenstock in his hand.

From Project Gutenberg

The painter makes excuses for the disciples not recognising their Master by naïvely dressing Him as a tourist with an alpenstock.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• cane
• crutch