(n.) An offensive weapon, having a long and usually sharp/pointed blade with a cutting edge or edges. It is the general term, including the small sword, rapier, saber, scimiter, and many other varieties.
(n.) Hence, the emblem of judicial vengeance or punishment, or of authority and power.
(n.) Destruction by the sword, or in battle; war; dissension.
(n.) The military power of a country.
(n.) One of the end bars by which the lay of a hand loom is suspended.