Definition of the word pommel

The word "pommel" originated in the Middle English language around the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "pomme," meaning "apple," which is also the root of our modern English word "pome" for fruit with a fleshy, pulpy texture. In medieval times, the handle or grip on the top of a knight's sword was shaped like an apple, creating a decorative pommel to help the knight's grip against an enemy's blow. The term then applied to similar handles on other weapons such as maces, daggers, and horsemen's saddle grips, thus transferring the term from a specific type of fruit to a specific kind of handle, transforming it into an entirely functional word with a very different meaning. Today, "pommel" refers to the handgrip on the top of a saddle, used to help a rider balance, just like its ancient origin as a sword handle. The term has evolved over time, but its history remains tied to the rich medieval tradition of chivalry and combat.