I. ˈbrandish, -raan-, -dēsh verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
Etymology: Middle English braundisshen, from Middle English brandiss-, stem of brandir, from Old French, from brand sword, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German brant brand — more at brand
transitive verb
1. : to shake or wave (a weapon) menacingly
cursed him eloquently … and brandished a pistol at him — H.H.Martin
2. : to exhibit or expose in an ostentatious, shameless, or aggressive manner
my cherry tree brandished its sparkling blossoms — Adrian Bell
has … not only demonstrated her intellect but brandished it — James Hilton
intransitive verb
: flourish , wave
swords brandished and banners waved
Synonyms: see swing
II. noun
( -es )
: a flourish especially with a weapon or whip