Foin

/ˈfɔɪn/ verb

Definition

To thrust with a sword or foil, especially a quick pointed jab in fencing.

Etymology

From French 'fouiner' meaning to thrust, which may derive from Latin 'fundus' or from Old Norse. The word was particularly popular in Renaissance fencing terminology during the 1500s-1600s.

Kelly Says

The word 'foin' is a forgotten gem of combat terminology—Shakespeare used it multiple times, and it perfectly captures the quick, elegant flick of a fencer's blade that modern swordspeople still practice centuries later.

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