A sharp, stamping movement of the foot in fencing used to distract an opponent or signal an attack. Also used in ballet and other dance forms.
From French 'appel' meaning 'call', derived from Latin 'appellare' meaning to address or summon. In fencing, it literally 'calls' attention or signals intent to the opponent.
This word beautifully illustrates how combat sports developed their own sophisticated vocabulary - the appel transforms a simple foot stamp into a strategic communication tool that speaks louder than words in the silent language of swordplay.
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