verb
C2
Proficient
brandish
Brandish (verb) means to wave or swing a weapon around, often to show anger, threaten someone or display skill.
verb
1
To wave or swing a weapon around, often to show anger, threaten someone or display skill.
"He brandished his sword at the pirates."
2
To hold or carry something and show it off boldly.
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Etymology
Came into English via Middle English braundischen, from Old French brandiss-, the stem of brandir (“to flourish a sword”), from Frankish *brandijan, from Frankish *brand (“firebrand; sword”), from Proto-Germanic *brandaz (“fire; flame; sword”), from which Old English brand (“firebrand; torch”) also descends; equivalent to brand plus -ish. See more at brand.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for brandish
See all rhymes for brandish →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of brandish?
"brandish" (verb) means to wave or swing a weapon around, often to show anger, threaten someone or display skill.
What is another word for brandish?
Other words for "brandish" include wave, flourish.
What are the different meanings of brandish?
"brandish" has 2 main meanings: 1. To wave or swing a weapon around, often to show anger, threaten someone or display skill; 2. To hold or carry something and show it off boldly.
