Definition of "reaping-hook" [reaping-hook]

• A curved blade with a short handle for reaping; a sickle; specifically, a sickle without the notched edge which formerly distinguished that: implement. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

• "Fronting the Ionian gulf there lies an island in the Ceraunian sea, rich in soil, with a harbour on both sides, beneath which lies the sickle, as legend saith — grant me grace, O Muses, not willingly do I tell this tale of olden days — wherewith Cronos pitilessly mutilated his father; but others call it the reaping-hook of Demeter, goddess of the nether world."
• "There had not been a man on Exmoor fit to work that reaping-hook since the time its owner fell, in the prime of life and strength, before"
• "To this bargain she absolutely refused to accede; upon which the fellow catched up the hatchet, and threw down the nail; threatening, at the same time, that if she made any resistance, he would cut her throat with a reaping-hook which he had in his hand."