A javelin is a light spear esigned primarily for casting as a ranged weapon. The javelin is almost always thrown by hand unlike the arrow or slingshot which are projectiles shot from a mechanism. However, hurling devices do exist to assist the thrower in achieving greater distance. The word javelin comes from Middle English and it derives from Old French javeline a diminutive of javelot which meant spear. The word javelot probably originated from the Celtic language.