pommel pommel /ˈpɑːməl/

noun

1. An ornament in the shape of a ball on the hilt of a sword or dagger  ( knob , pommel )
   an ornament in the shape of a ball on the hilt of a sword or dagger
   
   
2. Handgrip formed by the raised front part of a saddle  ( pommel , saddlebow )
   handgrip formed by the raised front part of a saddle
    The rider gripped the pommel of the saddle as the horse jumped over the obstacle
   The rider gripped the pommel of the saddle as the horse jumped over the obstacle
   
3. A handgrip that a gymnast uses when performing exercises on a pommel horse  ( pommel )
   a handgrip that a gymnast uses when performing exercises on a pommel horse
   

verb

1. () Strike, usually with the fist  ( biff [Informal] , pommel , pummel )
   strike, usually with the fist
    The pedestrians pummeled the demonstrators
   The pedestrians pummeled the demonstrators