noun
wand
WAHND/wɑːnd/
A slender handheld stick used to direct an action.
This slender wooden wand with a gold tip is for magic.
Etymology
Vǫndr meant a rod or switch, originally conceived as a flexible stick. The ordinary slender stick became a rod of authority or special power, giving wand its symbolic and magical uses.
In context
waving a wand in a specific instance to create a specific magical effect
More examples
- The fairy waves her wand to open the gate.
- The guard passes a security wand over my jacket.
- She applies mascara with a small wand.
Forms
wand · wands
Similar words
- baton
- More specifically a stick for conducting music or signaling.
- rod
- A general straight stick, not necessarily a handheld tool.