Definition

1. Verb:
   • To hold and use (a weapon or tool) effectively: To have something in one's hand and use it with skill and control, typically referring to a physical object like a weapon or tool.
   • To exercise (power, authority, or influence): To possess and actively use abstract forces such as power, control, or influence.

Usage Examples

• Verb (Physical Object):
  • The knight learned to wield a sword with great precision.
  • She can wield a paintbrush to create beautiful landscapes.
• Verb (Abstract Force):
  • The CEO wields considerable authority over company decisions.
  • A good leader must know how to wield influence wisely.

Advanced Usage

• "to wield the pen": (literary) To write, especially skillfully or authoritatively.
  • As a journalist, she wields the pen to expose corruption.
• "to wield power over": To have and exercise control or dominion over someone or something.
  • The dictator wielded absolute power over the nation for decades.

Variants and Related Words

• Wielder (noun): A person who wields something.
  • He was a skilled wielder of the axe.
• Unwieldy (adjective): Difficult to carry or move because of its size, shape, or weight. (Note: This is a related but distinct word, often describing an object that is hard to wield).
  • The unwieldy package was difficult to carry up the stairs.

Synonyms

• Brandish: To wave or flourish (a weapon) as a threat or in display. (Often more aggressive or showy than "wield").
• Employ: To make use of.
• Exert: To apply or bring to bear (influence, force, etc.).
• Wield is often more specific and implies skillful or authoritative application.

Phrasal Verbs

(This word does not commonly form phrasal verbs. Its meaning is typically conveyed as a single verb.)

Related Idioms

• To wield a big stick: To possess and be prepared to use great power or force, especially as a deterrent. (From the proverb "Speak softly and carry a big stick").
  • In the negotiations, the superpower was known to wield a big stick.

Verb

1. handle effectively
   • The burglar wielded an axe
   • The young violinist didn't manage her bow very well
2. have and exercise
   • wield power and authority