# arrows

/ˈæɹoʊz/ (US) · /ˈæɹəʊz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arrows
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. pointed weapons

noun · CEFR A2

thin sticks with a sharp point at one end, shot from a bow.

For teachers: projectiles with a sharp point and often feathers at the end, designed to be shot from a bow.

- The archer pulled back the string and let the arrows fly toward the target.
- Archaeologists discovered several flint-tipped arrows preserved in the peat bog, providing evidence of early hunting techniques in the region.

### 2. directional symbols

noun · CEFR A2

signs or symbols that point the way to something.

For teachers: graphical symbols used to indicate direction or to point toward a specific object or location.

- Follow the yellow arrows on the floor to find the exit.
- The diagram used red arrows to illustrate the flow of traffic through the newly designed intersection.

### 3. moving fast and straight

verb · CEFR C1 · Literary

to move quickly and directly in one direction, like an arrow.

For teachers: to move with speed and precision in a straight line toward a specific destination.

- The bird arrows through the trees to catch its prey.
- The kingfisher arrows toward the water's surface, breaking the mirror-like reflection with surgical precision.

Usage: The verb is intransitive and often followed by a preposition of direction.

## Examples

- The archer shot three arrows at the target.
- Follow the yellow arrows painted on the floor to find the exit of the museum.
- The archaeological site yielded several flint-tipped arrows, suggesting that the inhabitants relied heavily on hunting for their primary food source during the winter months.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.