Brandishing: meaning, definitions and examples

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brandishing

 

[ หˆbrรฆn.dษชสƒ.ษชล‹ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

using weapons

Brandishing refers to the act of waving or shaking a weapon or other object in a threatening manner. This action often conveys an intention to intimidate or threaten others, particularly in a confrontational situation.

Synonyms

displaying, flourishing, waving

Examples of usage

  • The robber was brandishing a knife during the heist.
  • She was brandishing her diploma proudly at the graduation ceremony.
  • He was seen brandishing his sword as a sign of bravery.
Context #2 | Verb

showing off

Brandishing can also mean to exhibit something boldly or ostentatiously. In this context, it does not necessarily have a threatening connotation but rather implies a showy display of an object to attract attention.

Synonyms

displaying, exhibiting, showing off

Examples of usage

  • She was brandishing her new designer handbag at the party.
  • He walked into the room brandishing his award for best actor.
  • The athlete was brandishing his medals after the competition.

Translations

Translations of the word "brandishing" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น brandindo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคญเคกเคผเค•เคพเคจเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช schwenken

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ menggenggam

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะผะฐั…ะฐั‚ะธ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ wymachiwanie

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๆŒฏใ‚Šๅ›žใ™

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท brandir

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ agitar

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท sallamak

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํœ˜๋‘๋ฅด๋‹ค

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุงู„ุชู„ูˆูŠุญ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mรกval

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ mรกvanie

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆŒฅ่ˆž

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ zamahniti

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ sveifla

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัั–ะปั‚ะตัƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒฎแƒ•แƒ”แƒฌแƒœแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ sallama

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ agitar

Etymology

The term 'brandish' originated from the Middle English word 'brandisshen,' which means to wave or flourish a sword. The word itself can be traced back to the Old French 'brandir,' which derives from 'brande,' meaning sword. Its etymology reflects a strong connection to weapons and combat, suggesting a historical context where showing one's weapon was a significant act. Over time, the usage of the word expanded beyond just weapons, capturing a broader sense of displaying or gesturing with any object, often with an intent to impress or intimidate. The evolution of 'brandish' also aligns with cultural practices in various societies where the display of arms was a symbol of power and authority.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,936, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.