double-edged sword

noun

: something that has or can have both favorable and unfavorable consequences
This much freedom of expression and opinion can be a double-edged sword.—Linda Connors

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of double-edged sword was in 1840

Rhymes for double-edged sword

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Browse Nearby Words

double-edged
double-edged sword
double-ended
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Cite this Entry

“Double-edged sword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double-edged%20sword. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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