at daggers drawn

phrase

: in a state of open hostility or conflict

Word History

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of at daggers drawn was in 1645

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at cross-purposes

at daggers drawn

at death's door

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“At daggers drawn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20daggers%20drawn. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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at daggers drawn

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