n. [ F. glaive, L. gladius; prob. akin to E. claymore. Cf. Gladiator. ] 1. A weapon formerly used, consisting of a large blade fixed on the end of a pole, whose edge was on the outside curve; also, a light lance with a long sharp-pointed head. Wilhelm. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. A sword; -- used poetically and loosely. [ 1913 Webster ]
The glaive which he did wield. Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ]