Harpoon

usgb/hɑːrˈpuːn/
noun

A long spear-like tool used for hunting fish and other large sea animals.

The fisherman hurled a harpoon into the water to catch the giant whale.
Visual representation of "harpoon" - A long spear-like tool used for hunting fish and other large sea animals

Often appears as...

  • throw a harpoon
  • catch with a harpoon
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "harpoon"
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Tool Description

Emphasize that it's a large, heavy implement, not just any long stick.

Illustration for Tool Description
Old seafaring tales often describe the heavy harpoon ready by the ship's edge.
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Historical Use

Understand it's an ancient tool, historically used for hunting marine life.

Illustration for Historical Use
Museums display ancient harpoons made of bone and stone.
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Metaphorical Use

Sometimes used metaphorically to describe anything that captures or hooks.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
His final argument was a harpoon that clinched the debate.
Visual representation of the word "Harpoon"

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