In many computer games (usually role playing games), there is an item called a bastard sword. Why is this name used, and does it bear any relation to the usual meaning of the term bastard?
Learn English – Origin of the term ‘bastard sword’
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Best Answer
Originally, a "bastard sword" was another name for a long sword, also known as a "hand and a half" sword. The sword is described as:
The name "bastard sword" has its own explanation rooted in the French epee batarde. This term was born of confusion over how to categorize the weapon. From the same source:
Finally, this use of bastard does bear some relation to its usual definition, but not in the term of an illegitimate child. From Merriam Webster: