'swordplay' originates from the combination of 'sword' and 'play', where 'sword' refers to a weapon with a long metal blade and 'play' refers to the act of engaging in a sport or activity.

The term 'swordplay' has been used since the 16th century to describe the practice and art of fighting with swords.

Initially, it meant 'the act of playing with swords', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the art or skill of fighting with a sword'.