Pronunciation: [ˈɛpiː] (IPA) 
The word "epee" is a French term for a type of fencing sword. Its spelling comes from the French language, which often uses silent letters in words. In IPA phonetic transcription, "epee" is pronounced as /ɛˈpeɪ/, with the first "e" pronounced as the "e" in "pet", the second "e" being silent, and the final "e" pronounced like the "ay" in "say". This unique spelling and pronunciation add to the charm and allure of the French language.
The noun "epee" refers to a type of fencing sword used in the sport of fencing. It is characterized by its triangular blade and a hilt with a guard to protect the hand. The word "epee" originated from the French term "épée", which means "sword".
In terms of its construction, an epee typically measures around 35 inches in length, with a blade that is relatively stiff, unlike the flexible blades found in other fencing swords. It is designed for thrusting and does not have a cutting edge. This allows fencers to effectively score points by contacting their opponent's body with the tip of the blade.
Epee is one of the three primary weapons used in the sport of modern fencing, alongside foil and sabre. It is often considered the most strategic and tactical of the three, as it emphasizes a slower and more deliberate style of fencing. The objective in epee is to successfully score touches on the opponent's whole body, as the target area includes the arms, legs, torso, and head. Unlike foil and sabre, there are no specific rules regarding right-of-way, meaning that both fencers can score points simultaneously.
Epee is widely practiced in competitions around the world and requires agility, precision, and quick reflexes. The sport of epee fencing offers both physical and mental challenges, demanding not only technical skill but also strategic thinking to outmaneuver and outscore opponents.
The word épée comes from the French language. It originated from the Old French word espee, which means sword. The Old French word itself can be traced back to the Latin word spatha, which also means sword.
