sword

noun

Synonyms of swordnext
often attributive
1
: a weapon (such as a cutlass or rapier) with a long blade for cutting or thrusting that is often used as a symbol of honor or authority
2
a
: an agency or instrument of destruction or combat
b
: the use of force
The pen is mightier than the sword.Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton
3
: coercive power
4
: something that resembles a sword
swordlike adjective
see also:

Illustration of sword

Illustration of sword
  • 1 pommel
  • 2 hilt
  • 3 guard
  • 4 blade

Examples of sword in a Sentence

once upon a time dueling with swords was the gentlemanly way to settle a point of honor
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.
The soccer star and the Spice Girls member posed on oversized golden thrones, cut their wedding cake with a sword and dressed their then 4-month-old son Brooklyn in purple. Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026 Our words are a figurative sword and instrument of action under this transit. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 The first footage from director Fred Cavayé’s new adaptation swaps soaring show tunes for prison cells, sword fights and revolutionary chaos. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 2 July 2026 Each of us had to watch our opponent closely and time our sword slices at the exact right time to protect our cargo. Jordan Moreau, Variety, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sword

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English sweord; akin to Old High German swert sword

First Known Use

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

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sword. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

sword

noun
ˈsō(ə)rd How to pronounce sword (audio)
ˈsȯ(ə)rd
1
: a weapon having a long blade usually with a sharp point and edge
2
: the use of force
swordlike adjective

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