First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
wield
verb \ˈwēld\
: to hold (something, such as a tool or weapon) in your hands so that you are ready to use it
: to have and use (power, influence, etc.)
Full Definition of WIELD
transitive verb
1
chiefly dialect : to deal successfully with : manage
2
: to handle (as a tool) especially effectively <wield a broom>
3
a : to exert one's authority by means of <wield influence> b : have at one's command or disposal <did not wield appropriate credentials — G. W. Bonham>
— wield·er noun
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Origin of WIELD
Middle English welden to control, from Old English wieldan; akin to Old High German waltan to rule, Latin valēre to be strong, be worth
WIELD Defined for Kids
wield
verb \ˈwēld\
wield·edwield·ing
Definition of WIELD for Kids
1
: to use (as a tool) in an effective way <The knights wielded swords.>
2
: 2exercise 1 <The banker wields great influence.>
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