[f. prec. + -SHIP.] The quality or art of a swordsman; skill in the use of the sword.
1851–2. Ruskin, Stones Venice, I. App. xiv. 382. The mere swordsmanship and marksmanship of the troops are of small importance in comparison with their disposition.
1891. Times, 20 Feb., 7/6. Mr. Egerton Castle discoursed on the ‘Story of Swordsmanship, especially considered in its connexion with the rise and decline of duelling.’
1899. Daily Tel., 10 Nov., 10/1. The latter bear terrible evidence of the swordsmanship of our cavalry.
b. fig. Skill in controversy or debate.
[1879. McCarthy, Own Times, I. 43. Lord John Russell’s swordsmanship was the swordsmanship of Saladin, and not that of stout King Richard.]
1886. Blackie, What does Hist. Teach? 84. The spiritual swordsmanship of St. Paul.
