1. a large crossbow used in medieval warfare, typically operated by a mechanical device for drawing and releasing the string
Usage: historical; also spelled 'arblast' or 'arbalist'
2. a soldier or archer armed with an arbalest
Usage: historical; also called an 'arbalester'

Examples

• The medieval fortress was defended by soldiers equipped with arbalests.
• An arbalest could penetrate armor more effectively than a traditional bow.
• The arbalester took aim from the castle wall.
• Knights feared the power of the arbalest on the battlefield.
• Historical records describe the arbalest as a formidable weapon of the Middle Ages.