Vocabulary word Joust - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

ACT 1 (American College Testing)

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Entertainment and Performance

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High School 14

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Dictionary Definition of joust

To engage in a formal combat or competition on horseback, typically with lances, between two knights.
"The two knights prepared to joust in the grand tournament."

Detailed Meaning of Joust

Originating in medieval times, jousting was a popular sport that involved knights charging at each other with great force and skill. The objective was to strike the opponent with the lance while maintaining balance and avoiding being knocked off the horse. Jousting was not only a physical contest but also a display of honor, chivalry, and prowess. The participants would often wear elaborate armor and participate in jousting tournaments, which were major events of entertainment and social gathering. While jousting is no longer practiced as a competitive sport, its legacy continues in historical reenactments and as a symbol of medieval knightly culture.

Example Sentences for Joust

1. Knights used to joust for the honor of their chosen ladies in medieval times.
2. He learned how to joust at a young age, his father being a respected knight.
3. The crowd cheered as the two competitors prepared to joust.
4. In the tournament, the young knight dared to joust with the reigning champion.
5. The fair is hosting a reenactment where enthusiasts will joust, reviving the spirit of chivalry.
6. To joust or not to joust, the prince pondered his decision.

Origin and Etymology of Joust

The verb 'joust' has a fascinating etymology rooted in the rich history of medieval chivalry and tournaments. It derives from the Old French word 'jouster,' which can be traced back to the Vulgar Latin term 'iuxtare,' meaning 'to approach' or 'to meet.' The idea behind this etymology is that knights would come together and meet in formal combat or competition, often on horseback and armed with lances, during tournaments and jousting events. These contests were not only displays of martial skill but also served as a means of showcasing one's valor and honor. Over time, 'joust' became associated with this specific type of chivalric combat, where knights would engage in these ceremonial contests, further cementing its place in the lexicon of medieval warfare and culture.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

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harmonize

agree

duel

concur

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More Usage Examples of Joust

1. The annual jousting tournament invites knights from far and wide to joust for the grand prize.
2. During the festival, townspeople would gather around the field to watch the knights joust.
3. He taught his son to joust, sharing the techniques passed down from his own father.
4. The knights, ready in their armor, were eager to joust before the king.
5. Horses, specially trained for combat, were integral when knights would joust.
6. Some knights, preferring the use of the sword, seldom chose to joust.
7. As a rite of passage, the prince was required to joust with a seasoned knight.
8. Knights would often joust to settle disputes, the winner proving his argument.
9. I had a chance to joust at the medieval theme park, a thrilling experience!
10. To joust effectively, a knight needed a mix of courage, skill, and a steady hand.
11. The thrill of the joust was too great for him to resist, despite his injuries.
12. The sun began to set as the last pair of knights prepared to joust.
13. Knights who joust often have a unique bond, despite being rivals on the field.
14. The king declared a grand joust to find the most valiant knight in his realm.