at swords' points

phrase

: mutually antagonistic : ready to fight

Word History

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at swords' points was in 1802

Browse Nearby Words

att
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Cite this Entry

“At swords' points.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20swords%27%20points. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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