swagger-cane

An officer carries his swagger-cane while on parade.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A short stick carried by military officers: "swagger-cane" refers to a short, often wooden or metal stick traditionally carried by military officers as a symbol of authority and a fashionable accessory. It is also known as a "swagger stick."

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The officer strode confidently, holding his swagger-cane under his arm. (A short stick carried by a military officer as a sign of rank.)
  • In parades, the swagger-cane is often used to emphasize the officer's posture and command. (An accessory that enhances the officer's authoritative appearance.)

Advanced Usage

• "to carry a swagger-cane": to adopt a posture of authority or arrogance, often metaphorically.
  • He walked into the meeting as if carrying a swagger-cane, expecting everyone to obey him. (He behaved with excessive confidence and authority.)

Variants and Related Words

• Swagger-stick (n): a synonym for "swagger-cane," a short stick carried by officers.
  • The sergeant tapped his swagger-stick against his leg impatiently. (A short stick used as a symbol of military authority.)

Synonyms

• Swagger stick: the most common synonym, referring to the same object.
• Baton: a longer stick used by conductors or police, but similar in function as a symbol of authority.
• Cane: a walking stick, though longer and not specifically military.

Related Idioms

• "To swagger": to walk or behave in a very confident, arrogant way (derived from the same root as "swagger-cane").
  • He swaggered into the room, much like an officer with his swagger-cane. (He walked with exaggerated confidence.)