Search Dictionary
Definition of javelin

javelin

/ˈdʒæv.ə.lɪn/
jav · e · lin
Plural:javelins
JUMP TO:

javelin Lexical Profile

javelin Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A light spear designed primarily to be thrown, historically used as a ranged weapon in warfare and hunting, but now predominantly used in athletic competitions.

Example

"The athlete gripped the shaft of the javelin and focused on the runway before executing her final throw of the championship."

2

A track and field athletic event in which competitors aim to throw a specialized light spear as far as possible.

Example

"He won the gold medal in the javelin at the national university games."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for javelin

• Rhymes for javelin

• Nearby Words

javan spitting cobra
javari
javary
javelin
javelin sand boa
javelina
jaw

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'javelin', derived from Middle French 'javeline', which itself traces back to a Celtic root related to the Old Irish 'gabul' meaning a fork or branched stick.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Javelin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/javelin
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.