Brandish is a word that we often hear or read in different contexts. It is a verb that is used to describe the act of waving or displaying something, usually a weapon, in a threatening or aggressive manner. However, the meaning of brandish goes beyond just waving or displaying something. In this article, we will explore the different definitions and meanings of brandish, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
The word brandish has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the definitions of brandish include:
- To wave or flourish (something, especially a weapon) as a threat or in anger or excitement.
- To display (something) in an ostentatious or aggressive way.
- To move or swing (something) back and forth or up and down.
Origin
The word brandish comes from the Old French word brandir, which means to flourish or wave. The word has been in use since the 14th century and has its roots in the Latin word brandire, which means to brandish or shake.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of brandish in different dictionaries is quite similar. For instance, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, brandish means to wave or flourish (something, especially a weapon) as a threat or in anger or excitement. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines brandish as to wave or swing (something, such as a weapon) menacingly. The Cambridge dictionary defines brandish as to wave something in the air in a threatening or excited way.
Associations
Brandish is often associated with the act of displaying or waving a weapon, such as a sword or gun, in a threatening manner. It is also associated with the act of showing off or flaunting something in an ostentatious or aggressive way. Additionally, brandish can be associated with excitement or enthusiasm, as in the act of waving a flag or banner.
Synonyms
Some of the synonyms of brandish include:
- Wave.
- Swing.
- Flourish.
- Display.
- Wield.
- Shake.
- Show off.
Antonyms
Some of the antonyms of brandish include:
- Conceal.
- Hide.
- Cover.
- Hold.
- Keep.
- Retain.
The same root words
The same root words as brandish include:
- Brand: a mark made by burning or otherwise, to indicate ownership or quality.
- Brandy: a spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice.
- Branding: the act of marking or labeling something with a brand.
Example Sentences
- The robber brandished a gun and demanded money from the bank teller.
- The football fans brandished their team’s banner and cheered loudly.
- The knight brandished his sword and charged at the enemy.
- The politician brandished a document and claimed it was evidence of corruption.
- The chef brandished a knife and skillfully chopped the vegetables.