Épée (en. Sword)

/e.pe.e/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A long, thin combat instrument with a blade.
The knight brandished his sword with pride.
Le chevalier brandit son épée avec fierté.
A weapon used in martial arts, such as fencing.
They train with the sword during their fencing classes.
Ils s'entraînent à l'épée lors de leur cours d'escrime.
Symbolic sword, representing power or justice.
The king's sword is on display in the museum.
L'épée du roi est exposée au musée.

Etymology

From the Latin 'spatha', referring to a similar weapon.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to have a sword of Damocles hanging over one's head
To be in a threatening situation.
avoir une épée de Damocles au-dessus de la tête
the sword and the pen
The power of knowledge versus military power.
l'épée et la plume
to pass under the sword
To be subject to judgment or risk.
passer sous l'épée

Related Words

two-handed sword
A long weapon that requires both hands to wield.
épée à deux mains
wooden sword
Sword used for training, usually made of wood.
épée de bois

Slang Meanings

To swordfight
When he disagrees, he resorts to swordfighting instead of discussing.
Lorsqu'il est en désaccord, il fait l'épée au lieu de discuter.
To fight with the sword
In some cultures, fighting with the sword is a mark of valor.
Dans certaines cultures, se battre à l'épée est une preuve de valeur.