English Reference
noun · verb

spear

n. · v.
US /ˈspɪɹ/ UK /spˈiə/ spear

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a long wooden pole with a sharp metal point at the end, used as a weapon.

    n.a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a sharpened head.

    Simple

    In the movie, the soldiers carried long spears and shields into the battle.

    In context

    Archaeologists discovered several flint spearheads, suggesting that the tribe used spears for hunting large game across the plains.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to push a sharp object through something.

    v.to pierce or strike with a pointed instrument; to catch something by stabbing it.

    Simple

    He used his fork to spear a piece of potato from the bowl.

    In context

    The fisherman managed to spear a large salmon as it leaped through the shallow rapids.

    piercestabskewer
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Sport

    n.a dangerous move in sports like hockey or wrestling where you hit someone with a stick or your body.

    n.an illegal or specialized tackle or strike involving a thrusting motion with a stick, helmet, or shoulder.

    Simple

    The player was sent off the ice for a dangerous spear during the second period.

    In context

    The referee immediately signaled a penalty after the defender attempted to spear the opponent with the blade of his hockey stick.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated