Main Entry: sword

Pronunciation: \ˈsȯrd\

Function: noun

Usage: often attributive

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English sweord; akin to Old High German swert sword

Date: before 12th century

1 : a weapon (as a cutlass or rapier) with a long blade for cutting or thrusting that is often used as a symbol of honor or authority
2 a : an agency or instrument of destruction or combat b : the use of force <the pen is mightier than the sword — E. G. Bulwer-Lytton>
3 : coercive power
4 : something that resembles a sword

— sword·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

— at swords' points : mutually antagonistic : ready to fight

[sword illustration]