sling

A sling is a flexible device used in several distinct ways. It can refer to a strap or band worn to carry or suspend a load, such as an arm sling or a shoulder sling, or to a simple weapon used to hurl projectiles by centrifugal force. A carrying sling typically consists of a strap worn around the body with a pouch to hold the load. An arm sling is a supportive device, often made from a triangular bandage, used to immobilize and comfort an injured arm or shoulder. The weapon sling comprises a pouch attached to two cords; the user whirls the sling to impart velocity to a projectile and then releases one cord to let it fly.

In its weapon form, the sling is one of the oldest ranged weapons. Slings have been used in many ancient cultures, including Mesopotamia, the Levant, and the Mediterranean, to launch stones or metal balls. The technique relies on coordinated timing and grip, with the pouch briefly catching the projectile while one cord is released. Slings could provide long range and piercing power in the hands of skilled operators and were employed by military forces in antiquity and early medieval periods. They have appeared in historical depictions and literature, including the biblical account of David and Goliath.

In modern contexts, slings are primarily used for medical or practical transport purposes, such as immobilizing injuries, loading gear, or suspending objects. The term can also describe various strap-based devices that distribute weight or support, reflecting the familiar twofold function of carrying and restraining through simple tensile hardware.