# lancer

/ˈɫænsɝ/ (US) · /lˈɑːnsɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lancer
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a type of soldier or knight from the past who used a long spear called a lance. They were famous for charging at enemies on horseback.

For teachers: a heavy cavalryman who fought with a long thrusting spear, typically on horseback. Historically associated with the knightly class and the medieval period.

## Examples

- The lancer charged toward the enemy line.
- During the medieval battles, the lancer was often the first to break the enemy's formation with a powerful charge.
- The tactical advantage of the lancer lay in his ability to maintain momentum while striking, a skill that made him a formidable opponent on the open battlefield.

---

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.