verb

brandish

Brandish (verb) means to move or swing a weapon back and forth, particularly if demonstrating anger, threat or skill.

verb

To move or swing a weapon back and forth, particularly if demonstrating anger, threat or skill.

To bear something with ostentatious show.

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Etymology

From Middle English braundischen, from Old French brandiss-, stem of brandir (“to flourish a sword”), from Frankish *brandijan, from Frankish *brand (“firebrand; sword”), from Proto-Germanic *brandaz (“fire; flame; sword”), whence Old English brand (“firebrand; torch”); equivalent to brand + -ish. More at brand.

Rhymes for brandish

standish outlandish

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of brandish?

"brandish" (verb) means to move or swing a weapon back and forth, particularly if demonstrating anger, threat or skill.

What are the different meanings of brandish?

"brandish" has 2 main meanings: 1. To move or swing a weapon back and forth, particularly if demonstrating anger, threat or skill; 2. To bear something with ostentatious show.