dagger

American  

[dag-er] / ˈdæg ər /

noun

1. a short, swordlike weapon with a pointed blade and a handle, used for stabbing.

2. Also called obelisk.  Printing. a mark (†) used especially for references.

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verb (used with object)

1. to stab with or as if with a dagger.

2. Printing. to mark with a dagger.

idioms

1. look daggers at, to look at angrily, threateningly, or with hate.

dagger British  

/ ˈdæɡə /

noun

1. a short stabbing weapon with a pointed blade

2. Also called: obelisk.  a character (†) used in printing to indicate a cross reference, esp to a footnote

3. in a state of open hostility

4. to glare with hostility; scowl

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verb

1. to mark with a dagger

2. archaic to stab with a dagger

dagger More Idioms  

More idioms and phrases containing dagger

• look daggers

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Etymology

Origin of dagger

1350–1400; Middle English, probably alteration of Old French dague, of obscure origin; dag ¹

Example Sentences

Here, the evildoers receive sumptuous cloaks along with their metaphorical daggers.

From Salon

Mother looks at them both and says, “Stop speaking such terrible words, boys! They are like a dagger in my heart. We will all leave together, or we won’t leave at all!”

From Literature

When the last players got a chance to take down their cloaks, daggers and suspicions they had the opportunity to ask each other what they wanted to do if they won.

From BBC

Supposedly “laid back” Los Angeles was rife with sharp elbows, daggers plunged in backs and a relentless quest for glory.

From Los Angeles Times

He raised his hands, but Anat glared daggers at him before turning back to Molly.

From Literature

Related Words

• bayonet
• blade
• sword