Arrow

Definition

Arrow refers to a thin, pointed projectile with a shaft and feathered end, designed to be shot from a bow. It is also used metaphorically to indicate direction, especially as a symbol or sign in visual instructions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæroʊ/
• Respelling: AIR-oh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈærəʊ/
• Respelling: AIR-oh

The pronunciation of "arrow" is similar in both American and British English, with a slight difference in the vowel sound in the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "arrow" originates from the Old English "arwe" or "arowe," meaning a projectile weapon. It is related to the Old Norse "ör" and the Latin "arcus" (bow), reflecting its use in archery. The term entered Middle English, retaining its meaning as a weapon with a pointed end designed to be shot from a bow.

Derivatives

• Arrowhead (noun)
• Arrowlike (adjective)
• Arrowed (adjective)
• Archer (noun)
• Arrowroot (noun)

Synonyms

• Projectile
• Dart
• Missile

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "arrow" is widely used to describe both literal and symbolic indicators of direction or motion. In a literal sense, arrows are projectiles used in archery, composed of a shaft, point, fletching, and nock. In symbolic or visual contexts, arrows indicate direction, movement, or alignment, commonly seen on signs, maps, and digital interfaces. The concept of "arrow of time" is used in physics to describe the unidirectional flow of time.

Related Terms

• Bow: A weapon used to shoot arrows.
• Fletching: The feathers or vanes at the end of an arrow for stability in flight.
• Target: The object or goal an arrow is aimed at in archery.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A slender, pointed projectile shot from a bow: Describes the physical object used in archery, with a pointed end and feathered back for stability.
  • Example: "The archer shot an arrow at the target."
• A symbol indicating direction: Refers to a shape or line that points toward a specific direction, often used in maps, signs, and instructions.
  • Example: "The arrow on the sign pointed toward the exit."