archer

Archer refers to a person who uses a bow to shoot arrows. Historically, archers served in military units and in hunting, while today archery is pursued as sport and recreation. Modern archery features several bow types—longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows—and a range of equipment such as sights, stabilizers, and protective gear.

The word derives from Old French archer, from Latin arcus meaning bow.

Archer is also a surname and a given name used in English-speaking countries. Numerous individuals and fictional characters bear the name.

In popular culture, Archer refers to the American animated comedy series created by Adam Reed. The show premiered in 2009 on FX and follows Sterling Archer, a self-centered spy, and colleagues at the intelligence agency ISIS. It is known for rapid-fire dialogue, satirical takes on spy fiction, and a mix of workplace humor and action. Archer has spawned spin-offs and a dedicated fan base, as well as various awards and nominations.