A cudgel is a short, thick stick or club used as a weapon. Traditionally made from wood, it is designed for striking or bludgeoning. Cudgels have been used throughout history for self-defense, law enforcement, and in various forms of combat. They are often associated with medieval times and can be seen in literature and folklore. In modern contexts, cudgels may also refer to similar objects used in sports or martial arts. They can be found in activities like stick fighting or martial arts training, where practitioners use them to develop skills in striking and defense.