ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bayonet

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈbeɪəˌnɛt// UK //bˈeɪənˌɛt// bay·o·net

n. a sharp blade that attaches to the end of a rifle. Soldiers use it for fighting at very close range.

n. a blade adapted to fit the muzzle of a rifle, carbine, or similar firearm, designed for use in hand-to-hand combat.


SIMPLE

The soldier fixed his bayonet to the rifle.

CONTEXTUAL

During the historical reenactment, the infantry demonstrated how to attach a bayonet before a charge.

COMPLEX

While modern warfare relies heavily on long-range ballistics, the bayonet remains a standard part of military equipment for its psychological impact and utility in close-quarters urban environments.

Origin

Etymology tree French Bayonne Proto-Indo-European *-tós Proto-Italic *-tosder.? Late Latin -ittus Old French -et Middle French -et French -ette French baïonnetteder. English bayonet From French baïonnette, named after the French town of Bayonne, where the plug bayonet was invented.

Usage

Often used with the verb 'fix' when describing the act of attaching it to a weapon.

© 2026 English Reference