Wield definition

wēld

Words form:

Frequency:

Wield is defined as to handle a tool, weapon or power with skill.

An example of to wield is to use a hammer and nails to hang up dozens of pictures.

An example of to wield is for a ruler to use his power to create peace in the land.

verb

To handle (a weapon or tool, for example) with skill and ease.

verb

To exercise (authority or influence, for example) effectively.

verb

To handle with skill and ease, especially of a weapon or tool.

verb

To exercise (authority or influence) effectively.

verb

To handle and use (a tool or weapon), esp. with skill and control.

verb

To exercise (power, influence, etc.)

verb

(obs.) To govern or rule.

verb

Origin of wield

Middle English welden from Old English wealdan to rule and wieldan to govern wal- in Indo-European roots

From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
From Old English wieldan (“to control"), a derivative of wealdan "to govern", from Germanic *walt-. Cognate with German walten, Swedish vÃ¥lla. Non-Germanic cognates include Albanian ul (“to put down, lower, abate, submit").

From Wiktionary