verb
brandish
BRAN-dish/ˈbrændɪʃ/
To wave or hold up something in a threatening or showy way.
The man brandishes a knife as the unarmed man recoils.
Etymology
Old French brandir meant to flourish a sword. The English sense keeps that conspicuous weapon movement, with emphasis on displaying it as a threat.
In context
I have seen this whole body of horse Upon A word of command draw their swords at once and brandish them in the air
More examples
- She brandished the winning ticket above her head.
- The guard warned him not to brandish the knife.
- He entered the room brandishing a signed contract.
Forms
brandish · brandishes · brandished · brandishing
Similar words
- hold
- Hold does not imply display; brandish involves a conspicuous, often threatening gesture.