leister

[ lee-ster ]

noun

1. a spearlike implement having three or more prongs, for use in spearing fish.

verb (used with object)

1. to spear (fish) with a leister.

leister

/ ˈliːstə /

noun

1. a spear with three or more prongs for spearing fish, esp salmon

verb

1. tr to spear (a fish) with a leister

Word History and Origins

Origin of leister¹

1525–35; < Old Norse ljōstr salmon-spear, akin to ljōsta to strike

Word History and Origins

Origin of leister¹

C16: from Scandinavian; related to Old Norse ljōstr, from ljōsta to stab

Example Sentences

By the by, Clinkum, I want a leister of your making; for I see there is no other tradesman makes them so well.

From Project Gutenberg

With this little leister the men cast up fish on the ice with incredible dexterity.

From Project Gutenberg

With the leister we would soon have a fine one that way, and if we had a lantern ready, we might take a few by ‘sunning’ besides.”

From Project Gutenberg

Saying this the reckless youth sallied forth with the spear or leister on his shoulder, and took the narrow bridle path leading up the glen.

From Project Gutenberg

Fifteenth.—I think your leister requires a more rigorous definition.

From Project Gutenberg