Poniard

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A poniard is a form of dagger with a slim square or triangular blade. It was primarily used for stabbing in close quarters or in conjunction with a rapier. The poniard is almost identical to the dirk. Shorter than a short sword and longer than a dagger, this blade is used more as a decorative weapon than for practical use.

[edit] Literary reference

Excerpt from "Eloisa to Abelard", a poem by Alexander Pope—

Alas, how chang'd! what sudden horrors rise!

A naked lover bound and bleeding lies!

Where, where was Eloise? her voice, her hand,

Her poniard, had oppos'd the dire command.

Barbarian, stay! that bloody stroke restrain;

The crime was common, common be the pain.

I can no more; by shame, by rage suppress'd,

Let tears, and burning blushes speak the rest.

a paragraph from "Eragon" by Christopher Paolini;

Eragon stared at the traders curiously. They seemed less prosperous than last year. Their children had frightened, wary look, and their clothes were patched. The gaunt men carried swords and daggers with a new familiarity and even the women had poniards belted at their waists.