Category:Bayonet

Bay"o*net, n. Etym: [F. bayonnette, baïonnette; -- so called, it is said, because the first bayonets were made at Bayonne.]

1. (Mil.)

Defn: A pointed instrument of the dagger kind fitted on the muzzle of a musket or rifle, so as to give the soldier increased means of offense and defense.

Note: Originally, the bayonet was made with a handle, which required to be fitted into the bore of the musket after the soldier had fired.

2. (Mach.)

Defn: A pin which plays in and out of holes made to receive it, and which thus serves to engage or disengage parts of the machinery. Bayonet clutch. See Clutch.

-- Bayonet joint, a form of coupling similar to that by which a bayonet is fixed on the barrel of a musket. Knight.

Bay"o*net, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Bayoneted; p. pr. & vb. n. Bayoneting.]

1. To stab with a bayonet.

2. To compel or drive by the bayonet. To bayonet us into submission. Burke.