fencing etymology

Etymology:

The word "fencing" comes from the Middle French word "fencer," meaning "to defend or guard against." This word, in turn, is derived from the Old French word "fendre," meaning "to cut, pierce, or break."

Meaning and Origin:

Fencing is a combat sport that involves two people using swords, foils, or épées to attempt to touch their opponent with the pointed tip or blade of their weapon while avoiding being touched themselves. The origins of fencing can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was developed as a means of self-defense and military training.

In the 16th century, fencing evolved into a more formalized sport with established rules and techniques. It became popular among the nobility and upper class, and was often practiced as a courtly pastime. Over the centuries, fencing has continued to develop and refine, with the emergence of different fencing styles and variations.

Types of Fencing:

Today, there are three main types of fencing:

  • Foil fencing: Uses a thin, flexible blade with a blunt tip that is attached to a bell guard. Scoring points involves hitting the opponent's torso.
  • Épée fencing: Uses a heavier and more rigid blade with a pointed tip. Scoring points involves hitting any part of the opponent's body.
  • Sabre fencing: Uses a curved blade with a sharp tip and a basket guard. Scoring points involves hitting the opponent's head, body, or arm above the wrist.

fencing relate terms

  • fence

    Etymology The word fence comes from the Old English word fencian which means to enc

  • fence

    Etymology The word fence comes from the Old English word fencian which means to enc

  • fencing

    Etymology The word fencing comes from the Middle French word fencer meaning to def

  • scrimshaw

    Etymology Scrimshaw is derived from the Old Norse word skrímsla meaning carved image

  • contretemps

    Etymology French contretemps Latin contra against tempus time Meaning An u

  • riposte

    Etymology French from Italian riposta from ripostare meaning to place again from

  • battle

    Etymology Origin The word battle derives from the Old French word bataille which i

  • pass

    Etymology and Origin The word pass comes from the Old French word passer meaning t

  • pentathlon

    Etymology Greek penta five athlon contest Meaning A pentathlon is a sport

  • grill

    Etymology The word grill has multiple etymological origins French grille meanin

  • fight

    Etymology From Middle English fighten fighte from Old English feohtan to fight f

  • conserve

    Etymology Latin conservāre to preserve keep safe Proto Indo European ker to

  • converse

    Etymology The word converse derives from the Latin verb conversari which means to