How Do You Spell CALTHROP?

Pronunciation: [kˈalθɹɒp] (IPA)

The word "calthrop" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "a," "l," "t," "h," "r," "o," and a "p." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈkælθrəp/. A calthrop is a medieval weapon consisting of four spikes arranged in such a way that one spike always points upward, making it difficult to tread on. The spelling of the word is derived from the Middle English word "calethorp," which is a combination of "cale," meaning "heel," and "thorp," meaning "spike."

CALTHROP Meaning and Definition

1. A calthrop is a small, four-pronged iron object with sharp spikes, designed to cause injury or damage when stepped on. Also referred to as a crow's foot, the calthrop is historically known as a defensive weapon or trap used in warfare and strategic settings. Each of the four points acts as a spike or a thorn, deliberately arranged in such a way that when the calthrop lands on the ground, one or more spikes are positioned upward, ready to inflict pain or puncture any object or creature that comes into contact with them.

   The purpose of a calthrop is to impede or discourage the movements of individuals or vehicles, particularly in tactical situations where road or pathblocks are required. As an ancient defensive mechanism, calthrops were used to hinder the advancement of enemy forces, disabling horses, or causing injury to soldiers. Additionally, calthrops have found application as a deterrent against infiltration or trespassing, such as protecting fortifications or securing restricted areas.

   Due to their simple design and effectiveness, calthrops have been used across different periods in history. Their menacing nature and potential to cause harm make them a challenging obstacle for individuals to navigate. While primarily employed as a military tool or protective measure, calthrops have also been depicted in legends, folklore, and literature to symbolize danger, cunning, and ambush.

Common Misspellings for CALTHROP

• caltrop-
• xalthrop
• valthrop
• falthrop
• dalthrop
• czlthrop
• cslthrop
• cwlthrop
• cqlthrop
• cakthrop
• capthrop
• caothrop
• calrhrop
• calfhrop
• calghrop
• calyhrop
• cal6hrop
• cal5hrop
• caltgrop
• caltbrop

Etymology of CALTHROP

The word "calthrop" is derived from the Old English word "calt(h)rop", which is a combination of "cald" (meaning cold) and "thropp" (meaning a thorn or spike). It originally referred to a sharp, four-pronged iron device used as a military weapon. The spikes of a caltrop were designed in such a way that no matter which angle they landed, one spike would always be upright, making it a formidable obstacle against cavalry or infantry. Over time, the term "calthrop" also came to represent any object with spikes or protruding points used to hinder or injure opponents.

Plural form of CALTHROP is CALTHROPS