What does pommel mean?
A pommel is a rounded knob or decorative fitting at the end of a sword hilt or another handled object. On a sword, it may be ornamental and can also help balance the blade. The word can also denote the projecting front part of a saddle and, in the compound “pommel horse,” a vaulting apparatus used in gymnastics. In everyday British and American English, the most recognizable modern use is “pommel horse,” although the compound is especially frequent in North America, where “vaulting horse” is less common. The word’s history links it to the familiar rounded shape of an apple: it entered English from Old French, where the term referred to an apple, and that sense ultimately came from Latin. Its unusual spelling is therefore related not to the metal of a sword hilt, but to the shape and appearance of fruit.
A rounded knob or ornamental projection at the end of a sword hilt or similar handled object.
"A small silver pommel decorated the end of the sword’s grip."
Usually specialized or historical when referring to a sword hilt; also used for decorative knobs on some other handles.
The front part of a saddle, especially the projecting piece associated with the saddle’s pommel.
"He tightened the strap across the front of the saddle below the pommel."
A specialized equestrian term, less common in general modern usage.
A padded vaulting horse used in gymnastics.
"She practiced mounting and dismounting on the pommel horse."
The compound “pommel horse” is especially common in North American English; British usage often prefers “vaulting horse.”
The plural is used for multiple sword-hilt fittings, saddle parts, or pieces of vaulting equipment.
"The display case held swords with ornate silver pommels."
A sword’s pommel is not merely decorative: it also helps balance the blade by counterweighting the hilt.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pommel come from?
English “pommel” came through Old French pomel, meaning “apple,” from Latin pomum. The application to the rounded end of a sword hilt or handle reflects the visual resemblance between that projection and an apple. Its use for the front of a saddle developed through the same association with rounded shapes. The English word is also related to “pome” and the botanical adjective “pomaceous,” both associated with fruit of the apple type.
How pommel is actually used
As a term for the knob of a sword hilt, “pommel” is chiefly historical or specialized. The compound “pommel horse” is standard in North American English; British usage more often prefers “vaulting horse.”
Easily confused with pommel
A pommel is a knob or ornamental projection on a handle, whereas to pummel means to beat or strike repeatedly.
Pommel refers to a handle ornament or part of a saddle or vaulting apparatus; pomelo is the citrus fruit.