noun
- A blunt or pointless sword carried in British coronation ceremonies as a symbol of mercy.
Usage: historical; British; also called the Sword of Mercy
Examples
- The curtana is one of the regalia displayed during the coronation ceremony.
- Unlike other ceremonial swords, the curtana has a blunt point to represent compassion.
- The Sword of Mercy, or curtana, symbolizes the monarch's duty to show clemency.
- During the coronation, the curtana is carried by a high-ranking official in the procession.