Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—B

Bayonet

So called from La Bayonette, a lower ridge of the Montage d'Arrhune. A Basque regiment, early in the seventeenth century, running short of powder, stuck their knives into their muskets; and charged the Spaniards with success. Some derive this word from Bayonne.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Bayonets
Bayle
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