Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Glaive \Glaive\, n. [F. glaive, L. gladius; prob. akin to E.
   claymore. Cf. {Gladiator}.]
   1. A weapon formerly used, consisting of a large blade fixed
      on the end of a pole, whose edge was on the outside curve;
      also, a light lance with a long sharp-pointed head.
      --Wilhelm.

   2. A sword; -- used poetically and loosely.

            The glaive which he did wield.        --Spenser.