Forte: The Definition and Meaning

In the context of swordsmanship, “forte” refers to the portion of the blade closest to the hilt—roughly the strongest one-third segment. This term has its roots in the French word for “strong”, a nod to the robust nature of this blade section. The forte is a critical concept in fencing and historical European martial arts because it directly influences how a sword handles impact and pressure during parries or binds. When wielding a blade, a swordsman will often rely on the forte to deflect or absorb strikes, as this segment provides superior leverage and power.