Fencing sword NYT crossword clue

This clue points to a specific type of sword used in the sport of fencing. Fencing involves three types of weapons, each with its own set of rules and techniques. The clue is asking for the name of one of these swords, often used in both casual references and competitive contexts.

The correct answer is ÉPÉE. The épée is one of the three main weapons used in fencing, alongside the foil and the sabre. It is the heaviest of the three and allows for hits to be scored anywhere on the opponent’s body. The word is French, meaning “sword,” and it appears frequently in crossword puzzles due to its unique spelling and vowel-rich construction.