Wakizashi Swords

Wakizashi (脇差, "side inserted [sword]"): A general term for a sword between one and two shaku long (30 cm (12 in) and 60 cm (24 in) in modern measurements), predominantly made after 1600. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also worn edge up as the katana. The name derives from the way the sword would be stuck at one's side through the sash.