Shillelagh (noun)

1. A sturdy stick or cudgel, typically made from blackthorn, formerly used as a weapon in Ireland.
2. A club made from a knotty stick, typically made of blackthorn and used as a weapon in Ireland.

Origin:

Late 18th century: from irish sail éille, from sail 'thong, strap' + éille 'club'.

Examples:

1. The Irishman brandished his shillelagh and threatened to use it on anyone who came near.
2. The shillelagh was the weapon of choice for many Irishmen in the 19th century.
3. The old man was known to carry a shillelagh with him wherever he went.
4. The shillelagh was a symbol of Irish heritage and culture.
5. The young man was afraid of the shillelagh, but he knew he couldn't show it.