arbalete (arbalat)

[F., see arbalist.] Same as arbalist, 2. arbalist, arbalest (är'ba-list, -lest), n. [ string to notch. The lighter arbalists, in the chase, and generally by horsemen, required a double hook, which the arbalister carried at his girdle. Heavier ones required a kind of lever, or a windla , or a revolving winch with a ratchet and long handle, to draw them; these appliances were separate from the arbalist, and were carried slung from the shoulder or at the belt. The short and heavy arrow of the arbalist was called a quarrel, from its square head, or more commonly a bolt, as distinguished from the shaft discharged by the longbow. Sometimes stones (see stone - bow ) and leaden balls were used. The mi ile of the arbalist was discharged with such force as to penetrate ordinary armor, and the weapon was considered so deadly as to be prohibited by a council of the church except in warfare against infidels. It could, however, be discharged only twice a minute. It was used especially in the attack and defense of fortified places. For similar weapons of other periods than the European middle ages, see cro bow. Also arcubalist, and formerly arblast. 2. In her., a cro bow used as a bearing. 289 arbalister, arbalester (är'ba-lis-tèr, -les-ter), n. [