What does saber mean?
A saber is a sword distinguished by its curved blade and historically associated with cavalry. Such swords were carried by mounted soldiers and used in combat, ceremonial displays, military training, and formalized dueling. Today, the word most often appears in historical or literary contexts, in discussions of cavalry, and in the established compound “saber-toothed,” as in saber-toothed cats and tigers. As a verb, “saber” means to cut or slash with a saber, though this use is relatively uncommon outside narrative and military writing. The term is especially common in American English; “sabre” is the more traditional form in British usage and is also widely understood in North America. Although a saber can mean any curved sword, it usually refers specifically to a relatively light cavalry weapon rather than a broad, heavy cutting sword.
A sword with a curved blade, especially one used by cavalry.
"The rider drew his saber and galloped toward the front of the charge."
The term often appears in historical, military, and ceremonial contexts.
To cut or slash with a saber.
"The fighter sabered through the ropes before boarding the vessel."
The standard plural adds -s; “sabre” is the corresponding plural form of the British spelling “sabre.”
"The museum displayed ceremonial sabers and their decorated scabbards."
A saber is a sword with a history: the curved cavalry blade designed for striking from horseback became an enduring symbol of mounted warfare.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does saber come from?
The English word entered through French “sabre,” which was borrowed from German “Säbel.” These forms ultimately derive from an earlier European term for a curved sword associated with cavalry. English inherited competing spellings, with “sabre” becoming traditional in British usage and “saber” becoming especially common in North America.
Related word forms
How saber is actually used
In American English, “saber” is especially common, although “sabre” is also accepted. British English more often uses “sabre.” As a verb, “saber” is less common than “sabre” and sounds somewhat more characteristic of American usage.
Easily confused with saber
A saber is a curved sword, whereas a sable is a dark brown fur or a heraldic black.
To sever is to cut something completely apart, while to saber is specifically to cut or slash with a saber.