The handle of a sword or dagger, including the grip and the guard that protects your hand.
From Old English 'hylte,' related to Old Norse 'hjalt.' The word has Germanic roots and originally referred to the part you hold onto.
Medieval swords had hilts designed like tiny pieces of armor for your hand—the crossbar called a 'quillon' was specifically shaped to stop an opponent's blade from sliding down and cutting your fingers. Every part of a weapon has a story!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.