lightsaber

A lightsaber is a fictional energy sword featured in the Star Wars universe. It consists of a metal hilt that projects a blade of pure energy, typically a plasma blade that is contained within a magnetic field. The weapon is associated with Force users, most notably the Jedi and the Sith, and is used for combat, ceremony, and training.

Constructed around a power cell and a kyber crystal, a lightsaber's blade color is determined by the crystal. Blue and green blades are common among Jedi, while red blades are typically associated with Sith or users employing synthetic crystals. The blade can cut through most materials and is maintained or extended via the hilt's activation switch or control mechanisms.

Variations include single-blade sabers, double-blade sabers, and specialized forms such as crossguard or curved-hilt designs. Training sabers are used for practice and typically emit a lower-energy blade. The color and design of a saber often reflect its user’s training, philosophy, or faction.

Within Star Wars, the lightsaber is a symbol of discipline and a weapon of last resort. Mastery requires extensive training in lightsaber combat forms and the use of the Force. The lightsaber is one of the franchise's most recognizable symbols and has influenced depictions of sci-fi melee weapons in popular culture.