A medieval dagger or short sword with a broad, straight blade, popular in Europe from the 13th to 15th centuries.
From Middle English and Old French 'anlace', possibly derived from Old Norse or Germanic roots. The weapon's origin is somewhat debated by etymologists, but it became well-documented in medieval European records.
Anlaces were the 'Swiss Army knife' of medieval times—soldiers, merchants, and common folk all carried them because they were cheaper than swords but more versatile than just eating knives. Archaeologists find them in excavations from London to Constantinople!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.