The Baculus

In terms of semantics, a baculus is defined as a staff, especially one that symbolizes authority. The term baculus, or baculum, is Latin for staff. Used in combat throughout Europe until well after the middle ages, the baculus was a heavy, hardwood club with a knotty head used for striking. While not as durable as a metal headed mace, the baculus could still inflict significant concussion damage to an armored or un-armored opponent. It was a popular weapon among conscripted soldiers because it was a relatively inexpensive weapon and easily obtained. It was common practice for soldiers using a baculus to carve and engrave the wood with pictures and marks recounting battles in which they had fought. This might explain how the term baculus came to mean a symbol of authority; many staves carried as ceremonial items are also ornately carved, often with images retelling history or military conquests. As an interesting side note ... in biological terms, baculum is also a slender bone reinforcing the male reproductive organ in many animals. Go figure. Special thanks to Varend Blacknights for help with the baculus.