A broadsword is a type of sword with a wide, flat blade designed for powerful slashing attacks. Unlike a thin rapier meant for precise thrusting, a broadsword has a broad blade (hence the name) that delivers heavy, sweeping strikes. Think of the difference between using a pencil to poke something versus swinging a paddle: the broadsword is built for impact.

These swords were used in Europe from the late medieval period through the 1700s. Knights and soldiers wielded broadswords in battle because their wide blades could deliver strong cutting blows. A skilled swordsman could swing a broadsword in wide arcs, keeping multiple opponents at bay.

The Scottish basket-hilted broadsword became particularly famous, with a distinctive metal cage protecting the wielder's hand. Scottish Highlanders carried these weapons into battle well into the 18th century.

Today you'll mostly see broadswords in museums, historical films, or fantasy stories. When an author describes a warrior hefting a broadsword rather than a rapier or dagger, they're telling you something about that character: this fighter relies on strength and powerful strikes rather than speed and finesse.