Steel

CHAPTER HEADINGS GLOSSARY

En garde: “On guard.” The opening stance in rapier combat.

Retreat: Backward movement in rapier combat.

Disengage: An attack in which one’s blade moves from one line to another under the action of an opponent’s blade.

Foible: The last third of a rapier blade; the thinnest, weakest part of the blade.

Flèche: “Arrow.” An attack made while leaping into a run.

Remise: The same attack continued immediately after being parried.

Redoublement: An attack continued on the opposite line immediately after being parried.

Allez: “Go.” A call for rapier combatants to begin fighting.

Attack: An offensive movement in rapier combat.

Recover: Returning to an en garde stance after an action.

Coupé: An attack in which one’s blade moves from one line to another over the action of an opponent’s blade.

Beat: A quick, sharp strike against an opponent’s blade.

Passé: An action in which blades cross but no touches are made.

Stop thrust: A direct attack with an extended arm against an advancing opponent.

Forte: The lowest third of a rapier blade; the strongest part of the blade.

Touché: “Touch.” When the point of the rapier touches the opponent.