An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. An implement for cutting grain, grass, etc., consisting of a curved, hooklike blade mounted in a short handle.
   

   2. → Sickle of Leo.

Etymology (EN): M.E. sikel, O.E. sicol; cf. Du. sikkel, Ger. Sichel, ultimately from L. secula “sickle,” from PIE root *sek- “to cut,” → section.

Etymology (PE): Das “sickle,” Mid.Pers. dâs “sickle;” variant dahre, → scythe; Wakhi δətr, Parachi dêš “sickle;” ultimately from Proto-Iranian *dāθra-; cf. Skt. dātra- “sickle, scythe.”