brandish
verb (used with object)
to shake or wave, as a weapon; flourish.
is brandishing
-
present progressiveof brandish (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Let me give you an example of how the administration is brandishing the decision.
From Slate ● Sep. 29, 2025
Discovery is brandishing its favorite wand, confirming plans for a highly anticipated “Harry Potter” television series, among other high-profile projects for the streaming service formerly known as HBO Max.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 12, 2023
Netanyahu is brandishing his economic credentials; a free market champion credited with reforms he led as finance minister two decades ago, which allowed Israel to weather the 2008 global financial crisis.
From Reuters ● Oct. 13, 2022
In the spirit of holiday cheer, Massie and Boebert recently shared family Christmas photos on social media — in which every family member is brandishing a gun.
From Salon ● Dec. 24, 2021
No one is brandishing nuclear weapons, though after two decades of reducing their forces, each is now racing to modernize them.
From New York Times ● Sep. 29, 2016
