Bludgeon: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically refers to a heavy weapon or tool used to hit someone with great force. Often implies a sense of brutality or coercion.

• The criminal was found with a bludgeon in his hand
• The act was so brutal, it felt as if he was trying to bludgeon his way through any resistance

A general term for a thick stick used as a weapon. It can also refer to a group of people with a common interest. In the weapon context, it's less specific and less brutal than 'bludgeon'.

• The caveman used a club for hunting
• She joined a book club to discuss her favorite novels

Often refers to a medieval weapon with a heavy head on a solid shaft. It can also be a ceremonial staff. The term carries historical or formal connotations.

• The knight carried a mace into battle
• The mayor carried the mace during the procession

A short, thick stick used as a weapon. It's somewhat archaic and often implies an improvised weapon.

• The farmer took up a cudgel to defend his land
• In old tales, heroes often wielded a cudgel to fend off attackers

Typically used when describing a violent and forceful action, often with a heavy object. It usually has a negative connotation.

• The intruder tried to bludgeon the guard with a heavy stick.
• He was bludgeoned to death in a brutal attack.

A more neutral term that can describe hitting someone or something with a hand, weapon, or tool. Can also be used in non-physical contexts such as workers' strike or ideas striking a person.

• He struck the ball with great force.
• The workers decided to strike for better wages.

General term for hitting repeatedly. Can be used in both physical contexts (often with negative connotation of violence) and non-physical contexts like competition.

• The boxer beat his opponent fiercely.
• They managed to beat all the other teams in the tournament.

Describes hitting someone or something repeatedly and usually very forcefully. It often suggests a series of strikes rather than a single hit.

• The bully would often pummel smaller kids in the playground.
• The heavy rain pummeled the roof all night.