Jousting (/ˈdʒaʊstɪŋ/) is a medieval sport in which knights on horseback use lances to try and knock each other off their horses. The spelling of "jousting" is influenced by the French word "jouter," which means "to play at tournaments." The initial "j" sound is pronounced like the "zh" sound in "pleasure." The "ou" sound is pronounced like the "ow" in "cow," and the final "ing" is a common suffix that means "the act of doing something." So, "jousting" literally means "the act of participating in a joust."
Jousting is a traditional medieval sport or equestrian competition primarily characterized by two knights on horseback charging towards each other at high speed with lances or spears in an attempt to knock the opponent off their horse or to break their lance against the opponent's armor.
Derived from the Old French word “joster,” meaning “to tilt” or “to strike,” jousting was a popular form of entertainment during the Middle Ages. It was not only a test of an individual knight's skill, strength, and horsemanship but also a display of chivalry and bravery.
The jousting tournament typically took place in an arena known as a tilt or lists, which provided a controlled space for the knights to engage in combat. Clad in full suits of armor, the knights would charge at each other, aiming their lances at specific target areas such as the opponent's shield or chest. Points were awarded based on successfully striking the opponent or unseating them from their horse.
Jousting events often attracted large crowds, including nobility, royalty, and commoners, who witnessed the spectacle from the stands or gallery. Skilled jousters would gain fame and fortune, while their triumphs showcased their prowess and accompanied celebrations.
Although jousting eventually declined in popularity as the Middle Ages progressed, it remains an important symbol of knights, chivalry, and medieval culture. Today, jousting has experienced a revival as a historical reenactment activity, allowing enthusiasts to recreate the thrilling and captivating displays of medieval jousting tournaments.
The word "jousting" derives from the Middle English term "justen" or "justynge". This word, in turn, comes from the Old French verb "joster" which means "to joust" or "to tilt". The Old French term has its roots in the Latin word "juxtare", meaning "to approach" or "to come together". Hence, the origin of "jousting" lies in the idea of knights on horseback approaching or coming together to engage in combat or competition, which is characteristic of the medieval martial sport.