The wakizashi (脇差 or 脇指:わきざし?), also known as shōtō (小刀?), is a traditional Japanese short sword. Its shape is similar to that of the katana, though the blade is generally thinner. Samurai warriors often carried both, referring to them collectively as daishō, literally 'the long and the short'.
The wakizashi was originally used as a defensive weapon for the samurai when the katana was unavailable. Being shorter and more maneuverable, it was more suitable for defense in confined spaces.
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