TAA i.3.33.1

hpš Khepesh Scimitar

Scimitar = an oriental single-edged curved or crescent-

shaped sword.

Sword = a general term for a hand weapon of metal, 

characterized by a longish blade, and thus distinct from all

missile weapons on the one hand, and on the other hand 

from staff weapons – the pike, bill, halberd and the like – 

in which the metal head or blade occupies only a fraction 

of the effective length.
     The handle of the sword provides a grip for the hand that 

wields it, or sometimes for two hands; it may add 

protection, and in most patterns does so to a greater or 

lesser extent. Still it is altogether subordinate to the 

blade.
     For want of a metal-headed lance or axe, which 

indeed were of later invention, a sharpened pole or a 

thin-edged paddle will serve in lieu.