Skip to content

Table of Contents

The word for today is…

brandish (verb):

1 : to shake or wave (something, such as a weapon)
2 : to exhibit in an ostentatious or aggressive manner

Source : Merriam -Webster

Etymology :Often when we encounter the word brandish in print, it is followed by a word for a weapon, such as knife or handgun. That’s appropriate given the word’s etymology: it is a descendant of the Middle English braundisshen, which comes from the Anglo-French brant or braund, a word of Germanic origin meaning “sword.” Nowadays you can brandish things other than weapons, however. The figurative usage of brandish rose alongside its earliest literal usage in the 14th century. When you brandish something that isn’t a weapon (such as a sign or a letter), you are in effect waving it in someone’s face so that it cannot be overlooked.

If you enjoyed this BFD word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends and, especially, your children.

Latest

Face of the Day

Face of the Day

In 2023, Christmas was ranked 28th on National’s party list before the general election. Christmas had been tipped for senior positions in government, should he enter parliament. However, Christmas was three places too low after National was only allowed five list seats.

Members Public