poniard

[ pon-yerd ]

noun

1. a small, slender dagger.

verb (used with object)

1. to stab with a poniard.

poniard

/ ˈpɒnjəd /

noun

1. a small dagger with a slender blade

verb

1. tr to stab with a poniard

Word History and Origins

Origin of poniard¹

1580–90; < French poignard, derivative of poing fist < Latin pugnus; -ard

Word History and Origins

Origin of poniard¹

C16: from Old French poignard dagger, from poing fist, from Latin pugnus; related to Latin pugnāre to fight

Example Sentences

Throughout, the filtering of bygone times through impish anachronism — complete with droll references that might do an AP History exam proud — gives “Six” the sheen of a polished poniard.

From Washington Post

He stooped coolly, and, after groping some time for the poniard, drew it from the leaves among which it had fallen.

From Project Gutenberg

What is this mysterious essence which the wasp carries in its poniard?

From Project Gutenberg

Endicott had then cut the cross from the standard of England with his poniard; and Charles II. had been humbled in the persons of his commissioners.

From Project Gutenberg

He made a futile attempt to ward with his poniard, but it fell from his grasp.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bayonet
• blade
• sword