Definition

A sharp blade that can be attached to the end of a rifle, used for fighting in close quarters.

Example

The soldier fixed his bayonet before charging into battle.

Conversation

Did you know that some soldiers used to carry a bayonet with their rifles?

Really? I always thought they were just for show in movies.

Nope, they were actually used in close combat situations.

That's pretty intense! I can't imagine having to fight that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To stab or pierce someone or something with a type of knife attached to the end of a rifle.

Example

The soldier was trained to bayonet the enemy in close combat.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that historical battle reenactment?

Yeah, I heard they even bayonet some of the dummies for realism!

That sounds intense! I wonder how they manage the safety part.

Root Explanation

Bayonet → The word 'bayonet' is believed to originate from the French word 'baïonnette', which is derived from 'Bayonne', a city in France where the weapon was first made. The term refers to a blade that can be fixed to the end of a rifle, allowing it to be used for stabbing in close combat.

Memory Tip

Imagine a blade from 'Bayonne' being attached to a rifle — that's how you remember that a bayonet is a weapon used for close combat.

Visually Confused Words