These words refer to pole-like weapons, usually with pointed heads, that are thrown or used to stab. In a historical context, spear can indicate any weapon of this kind, from the crudest tot he most highly refined; it most readily calls to mind a primitive weapon, such as one made of wood: the Roman soldier who wounded Christ’s side with his spear ; photographing a tribal dance of warriors carrying spear and shield. The word still occurs as a term in present-day spear fishing, however, where it indicates a forged, barbed instrument, usually made of steel. Lance and pike are forms of spear that were outmoded by the development of gunpowder. Lance , as it refers to the medieval weapon, suggests a long heave piece, one used by a mounted soldier to joust with, rather than one designed to be thrown. In the same period, pike indicated a larger, heavier weapon than lance , used by a foot soldier for bludgeoning or stabbing, rather than for throwing or jousting.

Harpoon and javelin both refer to specialized types of spears still in use. Harpoon can refer to a weapon particularly designed for catching fish, whether used as something to be thrown or to stab with. It has long referred to a steel-headed spear hurled to wound or kill such sea animals as whales, and still functions in this context, but now it often refers to any sort of pronged or barbed instrument that may be shot, as from a gun designed for the purpose. In a context similar to that for lance and pike , javelin once referred to a light weapon for throwing in battle: it survives now to indicate a specially made, long spear that is thrown in athletic events: working out with both the discus and javelin .