What is another word for gastraphetes?
Pronunciation: [ɡˈastɹɐfˌiːts] (IPA) 
Gastraphetes is an ancient Greek term that refers to a type of crossbow used in warfare. There are several synonyms for this term that are still used today in reference to similar weapons. One common synonym is the "belly-bow," which refers to the shape of the device that was designed to be wielded by placing it against the operator's stomach. Another synonym is the "crossbow pistol," which was a smaller, handheld version of the gastraphetes that was used for hunting and personal defense. Other synonyms for gastraphetes include the "composite bow," "lath crossbow," and "manuballista," which refers to a type of crossbow fired by means of a lever.
