an offensive weapon, having a long and usually sharp/pointed blade with a cutting edge or edges. it is the general term, including the small sword, rapier, saber, scimiter, and many other varieties.-hence, the emblem of judicial vengeance or punishment, or of authority and power.-destruction by the sword, or in battle; war; dissension.-the military power of a country.-one of the end bars by which the lay of a hand loom is suspended.