Synonyms for

Dagger

Verb / ˈdægɜ: / Another word for dagger — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a short, pointed knife used for stabbing

Synonyms & similar words

sticker obelisk knife blade shiv dirk stiletto bayonet pike spear sword weapon cutlass machete scimitar falchion sabre rapier foil epee kris jambiya

Synonyms by register

Formal

blade stiletto dirk

Informal

shiv shank

Literary

bodkin steel

Antonyms

shield protection defense safety security peace

Common collocations

  • dagger in the back
  • dagger of the mind
  • dagger-like
  • dagger point
  • dagger thrust
  • dagger attack
  • dagger fight

Word family

noun dagger
verb dagger

Usage note

While 'dagger' can refer to a specific type of short, pointed weapon, it is also commonly used metaphorically to describe betrayal or a sudden, sharp emotional pain.

Example sentences

  1. The pirate held a dagger in his teeth.
  2. The assassin quietly removed the dagger from his belt.
  3. The knight brandished his dagger, ready for battle.
  4. The chef used a dagger to fillet the fish.
  5. The criminal concealed a dagger in his coat pocket.

Quotes

  • Words are like daggers, once they are thrown, they cannot be retrieved.
  • A pen is mightier than a sword, but a dagger is mightier than a pen.
  • The dagger in the heart is the wound that never heals.

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