hilt etymology

Etymology

• Old English hilte, from Proto-West Germanic hiltiz, from Proto-Germanic hiltiz, from Proto-Indo-European *kelh₂-, *keh₁l- ("to cover, conceal").

Meaning

• The part of a sword or other weapon by which it is held.

Origin

The word "hilt" has been used to refer to the handle of a weapon since the early Middle Ages. It is thought to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kelh₂-, *keh₁l-, which means "to cover, conceal". This root is also the source of the words "helm" and "hull".

Historical Development

The hilt of a sword has evolved over time from a simple crossguard to a more elaborate and ornate design. In the early days of swordsmanship, the hilt was primarily used to protect the hand from the blade. However, as swords became more sophisticated, the hilt began to play a more important role in the overall design of the weapon.

In the Middle Ages, the hilt became a key component of the sword's overall balance and performance. A properly designed hilt could help to improve the sword's handling and cutting ability. In addition, the hilt could be ornamented with precious materials and designs, making it a symbol of the owner's wealth and status.

Today, the hilt of a sword is still an important part of the weapon's overall design. However, it is also seen as a work of art, and many sword collectors and enthusiasts take great pride in the quality and beauty of their hilts.

hilt relate terms

• holt

  Etymology Old English holt holt meaning a wood grove copse Proto Germanic hultaz

• pommel

  Etymology The word pommel comes from the Old French word pumel which means a knob

• Hilda

  Etymology Germanic hild battle gifu gift Meaning Battle gift or Gift

• handle

  Etymology of Handle The word handle originates from the Middle English word handelen

• rickets

  Etymology Origin Middle English rekkets 16th century Etymology From Old English wri

• blade

  Etymology The word blade is derived from the Middle English word blada which in turn

• hold

  Etymology Old English healdan Proto West Germanic haldan Proto Germanic haldaną P

• brand

  Brand Etymology Meaning and Origin Etymology The word brand derives from the Old Nor

• dagger

  Etymology Old English dægger Middle English dagger Old French dague Latin daca

• ragged

  Etymology The word ragged comes from the Middle English word ragged which is derived

• knob

  Etymology and Meaning of Knob The word knob has multiple etymological origins 1 Mi