spear-thrower

[ speer-throh-er ]

noun

, Anthropology.

1. a flexible device for launching a spear, usually a short cord wound around the spear so that when thrown the weapon will rotate in the air.
2. Also called atlatl. a rigid device for increasing the speed and distance of a spear when thrown, usually a flat wooden stick with a handhold and a peg or socket to accommodate the butt end of the spear.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spear-thrower¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

King Theodore was a celebrated spear thrower; it is said he could make sure of a man at thirty yards or more.

From Project Gutenberg

Beside him lay his flaked-stone ax, his bone-pointed spear and spear thrower, likewise preserved by a marvelous chemistry.

From Project Gutenberg

Spears and wooden clubs are universal, and the use of the spear-thrower is generally distributed.

From Project Gutenberg

Are the spear-thrower and the bull-roarer inevitably thought of as alive?

From Project Gutenberg

But it is quite otherwise with his spear-thrower or his bull-roarer.

From Project Gutenberg