whistling arrow; signal arrow
A traditional Japanese arrow with a wooden or horn bulb (鏑) that whistles in flight. Historically used to signal the start of battle or in Shinto rituals. Also used figuratively as 'the beginning' or 'harbinger' (see 嚆矢).
See also: 嚆矢
A whistling arrow was shot as the signal to begin the battle.
Whistling arrows are sometimes used in Shinto rituals.
Mixed kanji-kana spelling; easier to read for learners.
Compound of かぶら (turnip-shaped bulb) + 矢 (arrow). The whistling sound is produced by air passing through holes in the bulb.