olive-branch

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A symbol of peace: "olive-branch" refers to a branch from an olive tree, traditionally used as a symbol of peace or reconciliation.
   • An offer of reconciliation: The term is often used metaphorically to mean an overture or gesture intended to end a conflict or restore harmony.

Usage Examples

• Noun (symbol):
  • The dove carried an olive-branch as a sign of peace after the flood. (The branch represents the end of conflict and the beginning of calm.)
• Noun (metaphorical):
  • After the argument, she extended an olive-branch by inviting him to dinner. (She made a conciliatory gesture to mend the relationship.)

Advanced Usage

• "to hold out the olive-branch": to make an offer of peace or reconciliation.

  • The warring parties finally held out the olive-branch and agreed to negotiate. (They made a formal gesture to end hostilities.)

• "to extend an olive-branch": to initiate a peaceful resolution.

  • The manager extended an olive-branch to the striking workers by offering a compromise. (The manager made a conciliatory move to resolve the dispute.)

Variants and Related Words

• Olive (n): the fruit of the olive tree, often associated with peace and prosperity.

  • She offered him a bowl of olives as a gesture of goodwill. (The fruit itself carries peaceful connotations.)

• Peace offering (n): a gift or gesture made to restore peace.

  • His apology was a peace offering after the misunderstanding. (A synonym for an olive-branch in context.)

Synonyms

• Peace offering: a gesture or gift intended to bring about reconciliation.

  • The small gift was a peace offering to soothe tensions. (Directly comparable to an olive-branch.)

• Conciliatory gesture: an action meant to reduce hostility.

  • His smile was a conciliatory gesture after the harsh words. (A broader term for a peacemaking move.)

Related Idioms

• Beat the olive-branch into a sword: a rare inversion meaning to turn a peaceful gesture into a hostile one.

  • The leader beat the olive-branch into a sword by refusing to negotiate. (He transformed a peace offer into a threat.)

• Offer an olive-branch: the standard idiom for proposing peace.

  • They offered an olive-branch to their rivals after years of feuding. (They made a formal peace proposal.)