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 authority2 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 power4: something that resembles a sword

— sword·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

— at swords' points

: mutually antagonistic : ready to fight

[sword illustration]