Glaive

ricermonvarv The glaive is a medieval European polearm with a long knifelike blade. The blade curved back and was sharpened on the outside; it was a slashing and chopping weapon. Glaives were used to protect archers, crossbowmen, and gunners.

In Japan, a glaive-like weapon called the naginata was at one stage the primary weapon of the samurai. It was later replaced by the yari (spear).