Words / C1

WEELD/wiːld/

To wield is to hold and use a tool or weapon, or to use power or influence: wield a hammer, wield influence. Exercise (power) is the close twin; a title on a door is branding, not a decision right.

Meaning

To hold and use a tool or weapon; of power or influence, to use it.

Examples

• “A title does not wield decision rights; the exams officer does.”
• “Exercise is the power twin. Brandish is the weapon twin and showier. A plate is design. A named officer is the rule. Write the officer; then the brass if you must.”

Good to know

Hold and use (a tool or power). Close (power): exercise. A title plate ≠ decision rights.

Near in meaning

exercise

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