lance
lance Lexical Profile
lance Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A long, spear-like weapon with a wooden shaft and a pointed metal head, historically used by cavalry.
"The museum displayed an authentic medieval lance used in jousting tournaments."
A sharp surgical instrument used to make minor incisions; a lancet.
"The physician prepared the lance before making a small incision in the skin."
A rigid metal tube used to deliver a jet of oxygen or other gas into a furnace, or to melt and cut through metal.
"The industrial worker used a thermal lance to cut through the thick steel beams of the bridge."
• verb
To dart, thrust, or shoot forward quickly and sharply.
"A sudden jolt of pain lanced through his shoulder when he lifted the heavy crate."
To pierce or cut open with a sharp medical instrument, typically to drain fluid or relieve pressure.
"The doctor decided to lance the severe blister to allow it to heal properly."
To pierce with or as if with a long, pointed weapon.
"The fisherman managed to lance the large salmon in the shallow river water."
• Rhymes for lance
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'launce', borrowed from Old French 'lance', originating from Latin 'lancea' (a light spear), which is likely of Celtiberian or Gaulish origin.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.