crossbow

[ kraws-boh, kros- ]

noun

1. a medieval weapon consisting of a bow fixed transversely on a stock having a trigger mechanism to release the bowstring, and often incorporating or accompanied by a mechanism for bending the bow.

crossbow

/ ˈkrɒsˌbəʊ /

noun

1. a type of medieval bow fixed transversely on a wooden stock grooved to direct a square-headed arrow (quarrel)

Derived Forms

• ˈcrossˌbowman, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crossbow¹

First recorded in 1400–50, crossbow is from the late Middle English word crossbowe. See cross, bow ²

Example Sentences

In 2021, a man was caught with a crossbow on the grounds of Windsor Castle, stating to security officials that he planned to use it to kill Queen Elizabeth.

From Salon

She went into another room, closed the door and sat on the floor and a crossbow arrow came through the door, which she said would have hit her had she not been sitting.

From BBC

A man has been charged with the murders of a woman and two of her daughters in a crossbow attack at their home.

From BBC

With a flaming crossbow, she set the VMAs stage ablaze for her performance of “Good Luck, Babe!”

From Los Angeles Times

There has been criticism from Peta of how black bears are caught and killed, with accusations that hunters can use crossbows, and the animals might suffer for a long time.

From BBC

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