dagger

noun

dag·​ger ˈda-gər How to pronounce dagger (audio)
Synonyms of daggernext
1
: a sharp pointed knife for stabbing
2
a
: something that resembles a dagger
b
: a character † used as a reference mark or to indicate a death date
daggerlike adjective

Examples of dagger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most of the crowd is talking quietly among themselves, oblivious to Trevor Yeakley’s gaze, except for two men staring daggers right back at him. Ben Travers, IndieWire, 13 Feb. 2026 That’s reflected in the cover art, which uses 1970s-style typography and features the image of a dagger slicing through a mirror ball, drawing blood from the disco totem. Chris Willman, Variety, 13 Feb. 2026 Maye suffered six sacks and committed three turnovers, including a fourth-quarter interception that linebacker Uchenna Nwosu returned 44 yards for a dagger touchdown. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 9 Feb. 2026 Singh, who would be our local guide, always wore the five traits of a pious Sikh man — uncut hair (symbolizing strength and holiness and topped by the identifying turban), a steel bracelet, wooden comb, sheathed dagger and a baggy undergarment dating back to the Sikhs’ warrior days on horses. Norma Meyer, Oc Register, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dagger

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dagger was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dagger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dagger. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

dagger

noun
dag·​ger ˈdag-ər How to pronounce dagger (audio)
1
: a short weapon for stabbing
2
: a symbol † used in printing as a reference mark to indicate a death date

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