arrow

Arrow refers to a projectile weapon used with a bow. An arrow typically consists of a shaft, a pointed tip or head, a nock at the rear to engage the bowstring, and fletching near the tail to stabilize flight. Arrows are commonly made from wood, though modern designs use carbon fiber or aluminum shafts with various tip styles, such as target points, broadheads for hunting, or bodkin points. They vary in length, spine, weight, and fletching configuration according to purpose, bow type, and archer preference. Historically, arrows have been produced by many cultures worldwide, with notable developments in metallurgy, bow construction, and shaft manufacturing from ancient times through medieval periods to contemporary sport archery.

Beyond weaponry, the term arrow denotes a symbol or glyph used to indicate direction, mapping, implication, or function. Common examples include the rightward arrow (→) and leftward arrow (←). In mathematics and computer science, arrows appear in notation for functions, sequences, and logical relations. Arrow keys on computer keyboards and mobile devices are input controls used to move a cursor or object.

In popular culture, Arrow is the superhero alias of Oliver Queen in DC Comics, known as Green Arrow. The character has appeared in comic books, animated series, and the live-action television series Arrow (2012–2020), which helped launch the larger Arrowverse media franchise.