The shuriken, translated as 'blade hidden in the hand', is a Japanese throwing weapon. It consists of small, sharp blades, usually star-shaped, designed to be thrown precisely at targets. Shuriken were used by shinobi, ninja warriors, both as offensive and distracting weapons. Their size and weight varied, adapting to different tactical situations. Skilled practitioners could use them to disarm or incapacitate an opponent, or to distract them while performing other actions. The shuriken became an iconic symbol of ninja skill and cunning.