dagger

noun

dag·​ger ˈda-gər 

1

: a sharp pointed knife for stabbing

2

a

: something that resembles a dagger

b

: a character † used as a reference mark or to indicate a death date

daggerlike

ˈda-gər-ˌlīk 

adjective

Phrases

at daggers drawn

: in a state of open hostility or conflict

look daggers or stare daggers

: to stare angrily

they looked daggers at each other across the table

Examples of dagger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After an intense, one-shot fight scene through Josie’s Bar, Matt and Bullseye make their way to the roof, while Matt is covered in daggers and using his super-senses to listen to Foggy’s fading heartbeat. —Jordan Moreau, Variety, 5 Mar. 2025

Such was evident following a dagger of a fast break Sunday. —Marcus Thompson Ii, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025

However, before West Virginia could get any closer Van Lith delivered the dagger with a smooth layup in the paint and then a pull up 3-pointer as TCU led 65-43 with 4:12 remaining. —Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Feb. 2025

Brace yourselves, people! ROUNDTABLE | When Alan turns the floor over to the group, Danielle and Carolyn stare daggers into each other’s souls! —Nick Caruso, TVLine, 20 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing dagger

• cloak-and-dagger
• double dagger

Rhymes for dagger

• agger
• bagger
• stagger
• swagger

Kids Definition

dagger

noun

dag·​ger ˈdag-ər 

1

: a short weapon for stabbing

2

: a symbol † used in printing as a reference mark to indicate a death date