1. swords with a single cutting edge and a thick back, used especially in the 16th-18th centuries
Usage: historical; weaponry
2. a form of sword fighting or fencing using single-edged swords
Usage: historical; martial arts

Examples

• The museum displayed several 17th-century backswords used by cavalry officers.
• Pirates often favored backswords for their effectiveness in close combat.
• The fencing master taught both rapier and backswords techniques.
• Military backswords were designed for slashing rather than thrusting.
• The antique dealer specialized in collecting historical backswords and other edged weapons.
• Students learned the basic guards and cuts of backswords fencing.