noun
ammunition; projectiles; arrows and bullets
Originally referred to arrows and bullets collectively; now used broadly for any kind of ammunition or projectile, often in a somewhat literary or historical context.
敵の矢玉が激しく飛んでくる。
The enemy's arrows and bullets are flying fiercely.
この城は矢玉に備えて厚い壁で守られている。
This castle is protected by thick walls against projectiles.
Compound of 矢 (arrow) and 玉 (ball, bullet), literally 'arrows and bullets'. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word likely emerged in the context of early firearms coexisting with traditional archery.