A spear thrower, also known as an atlatl, is an ancient tool used for throwing spears or darts with greater speed and accuracy than simply throwing them by hand. Synonyms for spear thrower include atlatl, spear-throwing device, spear-throwing lever, and spear-throwing stick, all of which describe the same tool but with different variations of the name. The atlatl was used by prehistoric humans, and continued to be used by indigenous peoples around the world up until the 19th century. Today, the atlatl is a popular sport among primitive technology enthusiasts and is used as a hunting tool by some modern-day indigenous communities.