caltrop

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a small metal device with four spikes arranged so that one point always faces upward, used to injure feet, hooves, or tires

   The defenders scattered caltrops across the road before the cavalry arrived.

2. 2
   noun

   heraldry: a representation of this four-spiked device used as a charge on a shield

   Three caltrops appeared above the dark band on the family's coat of arms.

3. 3
   noun

   any of several spiny plants whose fruits resemble the metal device

   Sharp caltrop fruits caught in the bicycle tires.

From Middle English calketrappe and Old English calcatrippe, ultimately related to Medieval Latin calcatrippa, a spiny plant name built from words meaning 'heel' or 'tread' and 'trap.' The plant and weapon names reflect the pain caused by stepping on their points.

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