Vocabulary Spotlight
Dagger
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A short, pointed knife used as a weapon.
“He carried a small dagger concealed in his belt.”
Pronunciation
[ˈdæɡər]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Blade
Stiletto
Dirk
Saber
Antonyms
Armor
Defender
Related Words
Sharp (adjective)
Combat (noun)
Word Origin
The word “dagger” traces back to the Middle Ages, possibly from the Old French “dague,” meaning a short, pointed weapon. By the 14th century, it entered English usage, becoming a symbol of close combat and defense.
Word Family
Noun: Dagger – A small knife with a pointed blade used for thrusting.
Related Adjective: Dagger-like – Resembling a dagger in shape or sharpness.
Mnemonics
Imagine “dagger” as a sharp letter “D” edge, pointing like a knife. This helps connect “Dagger” with its form and function as a weapon.
Industry-specific Usage
Literature
Daggers often symbolize betrayal, secrecy, or danger in literary works. Shakespeare’s plays frequently include daggers as elements of intrigue.
Weaponry
In weaponry, a dagger is a close-combat knife, valued for its compact size and piercing capability, used historically in battle and for personal defense.
Film
Daggers are often seen as props in action or fantasy films, symbolizing stealth or danger.
In Context
In daily life, a “dagger” is often used metaphorically to represent danger, betrayal, or attack. Phrases like “look daggers” mean to glare at someone with hostility. Historically, daggers were symbols of power and status in many cultures, while in modern language, the word may also appear in symbolic forms like emoticons or gaming, portraying skill or power.