wield

verb

ˈwēld 

wielded; wielding; wields

transitive verb

1

chiefly dialectal : to deal successfully with : manage

2

: to handle (something, such as a tool) especially effectively

wield a broom

3

a

: to exert one's authority by means of

wield influence

b

: to have at one's command or disposal

did not wield appropriate credentials

—G. W. Bonham

wielder noun

Synonyms

• apply
• exercise
• exert
• ply
• put out

Examples of wield in a Sentence

The man was wielding a gun.

Can he wield a hammer?

He wields a great deal of influence over his students.

Recent Examples on the Web

Zac Posen continues to wield his sartorial touch on Gap basics. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 Dec. 2024

Younger generations still harness power, but don’t feel the need for a dedicated corner office to wield it. —Julie Kratz, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

The message repeatedly sent was that even in trying times like those alluded to by Latifah, art is necessary and sometimes can be wielded as a tool for change. —Jen Chaney, Vulture, 9 Dec. 2024

This selective outrage underscores a systemic problem: a political system where major donors wield significant influence over policymaking, often without bipartisan expressions of concern or actions that force transparency or accountability. —Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English welden to control, from Old English wieldan; akin to Old High German waltan to rule, Latin valēre to be strong, be worth

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wield

verb

ˈwē(ə)ld 

1

: to put (as a tool) to good use

wield a broom

2

: to use one's authority by means of

wield influence

wielder noun