1. Plural of atlatl; ancient or traditional spear-throwing devices consisting of a shaft with a hook or cup at one end that holds and propels a dart or spear.
Usage: Also called a spear-thrower or woomera in other cultures.; Used by indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica and other regions.

Examples

• Archaeologists discovered ancient atlatls in the ruins of the Aztec settlement.
• The museum's collection includes several well-preserved atlatls from pre-Columbian civilizations.
• Hunters used atlatls to throw spears with greater force and accuracy than by hand.
• Modern enthusiasts still practice with replica atlatls at historical reenactments.
• The atlatls allowed warriors to strike targets from a safer distance.