Pronunciation: [wˈɔː hˈamə] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the term "war hammer" is /wɔːr ˈhæmər/. The first syllable "war" sounds like "war" with an elongated "a" sound, and the second syllable "hammer" is pronounced like "ham-er" with a silent "m" in the middle. The term refers to a type of weapon used in warfare, typically a heavy hammer-like object that was designed to inflict damage to an opponent's armor or body.
A war hammer is a noun that refers to a type of weapon commonly used in medieval warfare. It is characterized by its distinct design, typically consisting of a strong, long handle made of wood or metal, attached to a heavy head designed for striking and impacting opponents in close combat. The head of a war hammer often exhibits a specific shape, which generally consists of a flat surface on one side and a spiked or blunt surface on the other. This combination allows for versatile offensive tactics, as the wielder can choose between delivering powerful crushing blows or piercing strikes depending on the situation.
War hammers were primarily used by knights, soldiers, and warriors during battles, as their design allowed them to exploit the weaknesses of armor, particularly plate armor, which was prevalent during the Middle Ages. The flat side of the hammer could deliver concussive force, denting or breaking armor and causing significant injury to the enemy. The spike or blunt surface, meanwhile, could penetrate gaps in armor, such as joints, or be used to immobilize opponents by hooking them or knocking them off balance.
In addition to its effectiveness against armor, the war hammer's versatility, relative ease of use, and durability made it a preferred choice for close-quarter combat. It became a symbol of power and strength on the battlefield, remaining influential in medieval warfare for its ability to neutralize heavily armored opponents, reinforcing its significance as an iconic weapon of the era.
The word "war hammer" has an Old English origin. The word "war" comes from the Old English "wyrre", meaning "conflict" or "fight". The term "hammer" comes from the Old English "hamor", which refers to a tool used for striking or pounding. When combined, "war hammer" literally means a hammer used in warfare or combat situations.
