Dagger: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to describe a short, pointed weapon used for stabbing. Commonly referenced in historical or fantasy contexts.

• The knight unsheathed his dagger, ready to defend himself.
• In the play, Julius Caesar was famously stabbed with a dagger.

A common utensil or tool used for cutting. Can refer to kitchen knives, pocket knives, and other similar tools.

• She used a knife to chop the onions.
• He always carried a pocket knife for simple tasks.

Refers to the flat cutting part of a tool or weapon. Can be used in a broader sense to describe swords, knives, or other sharp instruments.

• The chef's blade sliced through the vegetable effortlessly.
• He admired the sharpness of the blade on his new sword.

Slang term often used to describe a makeshift or improvised stabbing weapon, commonly associated with prisons or illegal activities. Has a negative connotation.

• The inmate fashioned a shiv from a toothbrush.
• He was caught with a shiv hidden in his sock.

In typography, it refers to a typographical symbol (†) used to indicate a footnote if an asterisk (*) has already been used.

• The symbol at the end of the sentence is a dagger, pointing to an additional note at the bottom of the page.

Used to describe something that stands for or suggests something else by reason of relationship, association, convention, or accidental resemblance.

• The dove is a universal symbol of peace.
• The statue is considered a symbol of the city's rich history.

Used to describe an act of presenting or depicting someone or something in a particular way or as a noun for someone acting on behalf of others.

• The painting is a representation of the artist's view on modern society.
• She was chosen as the representation of her class in the student council.

Used to describe a gesture or a symbol that conveys a specific message or instruction.

• The stop sign at the corner of the street is hard to miss.
• He gave her a sign to remain quiet as they entered the room.

Same as the previous 'dagger'. This might be a repeated entry.

• The assassin concealed the dagger under his cloak.
• She felt as if she'd been stabbed with a dagger of betrayal.

To threaten means to express an intention to harm or punish someone. This word clearly indicates a negative action and is often used in legal, political, or everyday conflict contexts.

• He threatened to call the police if they didn't leave.
• The company threatened to sue if the contract was broken.

To intimidate means to make someone feel afraid, often through threats or an imposing presence. This term is used in both personal and professional contexts.

• The boss used his position to intimidate his employees.
• The large, fierce dog serves to intimidate any potential intruders.

Menace can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to threaten harm or danger. As a noun, it refers to something or someone that poses such a threat. It has a slightly old-fashioned feel.

• Dark clouds menaced the horizon, signaling an impending storm.
• That kid is a menace to the whole neighborhood.