‖ épée
(epe)
[Fr., = sword.]
The sharp-pointed sword used in duelling and (blunted) in fencing. Hence épé(e)ist [cf. F. épéiste, also used], an épée fencer.
| 1889 W. H. Pollock et al. Fencing vii. 112 The fencer who has never handled the practice épée may at first find some difficulty when he exchanges the foil for it. 1910 Encycl. Brit. IX. 668/1 English épéists have also been coming to the front. Ibid. 668/2 {Eacu}pée fencing can be, and often is, conducted indoors. 1910 Westm. Gaz. 11 Apr. 14/1 Mr. Seligman is a very fine épéeist. 1922 G. F. Laking Rec. Eur. Armour V. 59 The Court or ‘small’ sword, the use and rules of which are practically identical with those of the modern épée. 1955 Times 4 July 4/1 In the men's bouts, fought with the épée, London had 13 wins to three. 1958 Times 28 Nov. 16/6 There are 14 of the current top 16 amateur épéeistes entered. |