reed/stick/pen
kalamos denotes a reed used as a visible object, an implement, or a measuring rod in the supplied passages.
The attested uses most often present a reed as a physical object: shaken by wind, broken, held or used to strike, or carrying a sponge. It also designates an implement for measuring and, in a writing context, the instrument used with ink.
Senses in use
-
Reed as a physical object or implement · dominant
In Luke 7:24 and Matthew 11:7, the accusative singular occurs in the question about seeing a reed shaken by the wind; Matthew 12:20 places it in the clause about a broken reed. In Mark 15:19 and Matthew 27:30, the dative and accusative forms occur in actions of striking a head, while Mark 15:36 presents it as supporting a sponge filled with vinegar.
-
Rod used for measuring · common
In Revelation 11:1, the nominative singular is described in the APB as a reed like a rod given for measuring the temple, altar, and worshipers. Revelation 21:15 and Revelation 21:16 place the term in measurement of the city, its gates, and its wall.
-
Writing instrument · rare
In 3 John 1:13, the genitive singular occurs with ink in a statement about not wishing to write; the APB renders the clause "with ink and pen."
In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB commonly presents the term as "reed," including reeds shaken by wind, broken, used to strike, or used with a sponge; it presents the writing context as "pen" and the measurement contexts as "rod" or "measuring rod." These are verse-level renderings rather than definitions.