Wĕap'on, n.

(Synop., § 130), n. [A-S. wæpen, wêpen, wæpun, wæmn, O. Sax. wapan, O. Fries. wepin, wepen, wepn, D. & L. Ger. wapen, Dan. vaaben, Sw. vapen, Icel. vâpn, vopn, Goth. vepna, pl., O. H. Ger. wâfan, waffan, M. H. Ger. wâfen, N. H. Ger. waffe.] 1. An instrument of offensive or defensive combat; something to fight with; any thing used, or designed to be used, in destroying or annoying an enemy. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal. 2 Cor. x. 4. They, astonished, all resistance lost, All courage; down their idle weapons dropped. Milton.

2. Hence, that with which one contends against another. “Woman’s weapons, water-drops.” Shak.
3. (Bot.) A thorn, prickle, or sting, with which plants are furnished for defense.