Meanings
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1
noun
the raised front part of a saddle, used as a handhold
The rider rested one hand on the pommel as the horse turned.
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2
noun
the rounded knob at the end of a sword or dagger handle
A silver pommel balanced the weight of the sword's blade.
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3
noun
one of the two handles on a pommel horse in gymnastics
The gymnast shifted his weight smoothly between the pommels.
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4
verb
to strike repeatedly, especially with the fists
The attackers began to pommel the locked door in frustration.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Middle English pomel, from Old French pomel, a diminutive of pome, 'apple,' ultimately from Latin pomum. The rounded saddle and sword parts were named for their apple-like shape. The striking verb is historically related to pummel.