hilt

noun

: a handle especially of a sword or dagger
Phrases
to the hilt
1
: to the very limit : completely
the farm was mortgaged to the hilt
2
: with nothing lacking
played the role to the hilt

Examples of hilt 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.
With Russia sanctioned to the hilt, and the world in need of its resources, there’s no better time to cash in. Rachel Marsden, Hartford Courant, 3 July 2025 Brady’s ecofriendly $17M mega mansion is stocked to the hilt with amenities. Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 30 June 2025 His goth beauty is underscored by a belt, sword hilt, and horse saddle adorned with matching skulls. Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 21 Aug. 2024 Last year in Denver, the Wolves celebrated a historic, 20-point comeback victory to the hilt. Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for hilt

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German helza hilt

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hilt was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Hilt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hilt. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

hilt

noun
: a handle especially of a sword or dagger

More from Merriam-Webster on hilt

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