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

see also at daggers drawn, look daggers

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.
Patrick drives his dagger into Huw’s chest just as the cops show. Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Uzan’s 3 would serve as the dagger; TCU didn’t get closer than seven points in the final three minutes. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Jan. 2026 Charged up Luka Doncic’s balletic step-through to beat a double team and layup a soft finger roll was the offensive dagger that slayed his former team. Los Angeles Times, 27 Jan. 2026 Darnold’s third-quarter touchdown pass to Cooper Kupp — formerly Stafford’s favorite target and the MVP of the Rams’ Super LVI victory — proved to be the dagger. Peter Sblendorio, Hartford Courant, 26 Jan. 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 4 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

More from Merriam-Webster on dagger

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster