Cutlass (noun)

1. A short, heavy sword with a curved blade, used by sailors.
2. A short heavy sword or saber with a curved blade.

Origin:

Mid 16th century: from french coutelas, from old french couteau "knife".

Examples:

1. The sailors were armed with cutlasses in case of a boarding action.
2. He kept a cutlass under his pillow for protection.
3. The cutlass was a weapon of choice for pirates.
4. The cutlass was used for close-quarters combat.
5. The cutlass was a versatile weapon that could be used for both cutting and thrusting.