Definition

Noun: - The handle of a sword or dagger: The part of a bladed weapon, such as a sword or dagger, designed to be gripped by the hand. It typically consists of a guard, a grip, and a pommel.

Usage and Examples

• As a noun:
  • The knight's hand tightened around the hilt of his sword as he prepared to fight.
  • The ornate silver hilt of the dagger was beautifully crafted.

Advanced Usage and Idioms

• To the hilt: Completely, fully, or to the maximum extent.
  • He was committed to the project to the hilt.
  • She defended her friend to the hilt against the accusations.

Variants and Related Words

• Hilted (adjective): Describing a weapon that is fitted with a hilt.
  • The museum displayed a finely hilted rapier from the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Handle: The part by which a tool or weapon is held.
• Grip: The part of an object designed to be held.
• Haft: The handle of a knife, axe, or spear.

Notes on Different Meanings

The word hilt is used almost exclusively to refer to the handle of a sword or similar weapon. Its primary figurative use is in the idiom "to the hilt."

Noun

1. the handle of a sword or dagger