Vocabulary Spotlight
Daggers
Part of Speech: Noun (plural)
Definition: Plural of dagger; short, pointed knives typically used as weapons.
“The thieves were armed with daggers, ready for any confrontation.”
Pronunciation
[ˈdæɡərz]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Blades
Dirks
Sabers
Weapons
Antonyms
Defenses
Protections
Related Words
Sword (noun)
Battle (noun)
Word Origin
Derived from the singular “dagger,” the word evolved from Middle English with influences from Old French “dague” and Italian “daga,” symbolizing short, sharp weapons.
Word Family
Noun (plural): Daggers – Multiple short knives used for combat.
Related Verb: Daggers drawn – To be in a state of hostility.
Mnemonics
Remember “Daggers” by envisioning a pair of crossed blades ready for battle, signifying conflict or hostility.
Industry-specific Usage
Military
In historical military contexts, daggers were often backup weapons, used when swords or other primary weapons were unavailable.
Stagecraft
Daggers are frequently used as props in theatre productions, particularly in historical and dramatic plays to depict danger.
Expressions
The phrase “daggers drawn” means being in a state of confrontation, commonly used in political or workplace conflicts.
In Context
“Daggers” symbolizes conflict or aggression. In literature, daggers often represent treachery or betrayal. Figuratively, expressions like “eyes like daggers” convey intense anger. Historically, daggers were practical for personal defense, and in modern language, “daggers drawn” refers to confrontational situations.