machaeras

Machaeras was a Hellenistic period Greek sword. Its name translates to "dagger" or "short sword" in ancient Greek. While the exact origins and prevalence of machaeras are debated among historians and archaeologists, it is generally understood to be a type of single-edged cutting sword. It was likely used by both infantry and cavalry soldiers. Unlike the double-edged xiphos, the machaeras typically featured a curved or slightly curved blade with a prominent single edge. This design made it effective for slashing and chopping attacks. Some sources suggest it may have evolved from earlier swords or been influenced by weapons from neighboring cultures. Evidence for machaeras comes from textual descriptions, artistic depictions, and archaeological finds. The precise dimensions and variations of the machaeras are not always clearly defined, leading to some overlap in terminology with other ancient Greek swords. Its use and form likely varied over time and across different regions of the Hellenistic world.