as in waves
to put into view in a threatening or excited manner
She brandished a stick at the dog. brandished a petition signed by hundreds of town residents
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Recent Examples of brandishes
When a trompo taco is ordered, a cook brandishes a knife of ferocious sharpness, shaving a thin, broad piece large enough to overhang the corn tortilla it’s laid upon.
—
Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2025
Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for brandishes
Verb
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After the Hunt star Andrew Garfield waves to attendees of the red carpet premiere of the film in Venice on Friday.—
Tim Lammers,
Forbes.com,
31 Aug. 2025
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In Lake Michigan, beach-goers from Manistee County south to Berrien County should beware of strong rip currents, waves up to 6 feet high and gusts reaching 25 knots (28 mph).—
Sarah Moore,
Freep.com,
29 Aug. 2025
Verb
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Once the runway show is over, Heidi announces that Ethan’s, Veejay’s, and Yuchen’s looks were the judges’ least favorite.—
Roxana Hadadi,
Vulture,
5 Sep. 2025
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Stoked, Joe announces his candidacy to run against Ted, immediately recording a video and posting it.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
5 Sep. 2025
Verb
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In honor of celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, advertises Bryan's best brisket sandwich.—
Jill Robbins,
Southern Living,
5 Sep. 2025
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But for Jennifer Lawrence, a simple everyday outing is a chance to show off a tote bag that advertises a literal book.—
Elizabeth Logan,
Glamour,
25 Aug. 2025
Verb
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Cumberland Falls is one of only two places in the world that regularly produces moonbows — a night-time rainbow created by moonlight refracting through water droplets.—
Ray Padilla,
Louisville Courier Journal,
6 Sep. 2025
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This tree produces consistently vibrant red foliage in the fall.—
Chris McKeown,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
6 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Brandishes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brandishes. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.
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