·noun That part of the hilt, in certain kinds of swords, which overlaps the scabbard.
II. Languet ·noun Anything resembling the tongue in form or office; specif., the slip of metal in an organ pipe which turns the current of air toward its mouth.
A small slip of metal on the hilt of a sword, which overhangs the scabbard; the ear of a sword. ...
The Sailor's Word-Book