xyston

English

Etymology

Borrowed from Ancient Greek ξυστόν (xustón, “spear, javelin”), of unknown origin. Potentially from Proto-Indo-European *ǵʰasto- or *ǵʰasdʰo- (“branch ~ spear, sharp spine”) (whence also gad, goad, and yard), but this is likely a substrate word in view of the various irregularities. (Can this⁽⁺⁾ etymology be sourced?)

Noun

xyston (plural xystons or xysta)

1. A type of long thrusting lance, used in ancient Greece.
   • 2004, J. F. C. Fuller, The Generalship of Alexander the Great, page 47:

     The Companions, like the Thessalian cavalry, were a well-mounted force armed with cuirass and the short thrusting spear (xyston) for close combat.