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Definition of wield

wield

/wiːld/
wield
Adjective:wieldable
•
Past Simple:wielded
•
Past Participle:wielded
•
Present Participle:wielding
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wield Lexical Profile

wield Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To possess and exercise power, authority, or influence.

Example

"The committee chairs wield considerable influence over which legislative bills reach the floor."

2

To hold and use a tool, instrument, or implement effectively with the hands.

Example

"The master carpenter knew how to wield a chisel with remarkable precision."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for wield

• Nearby Words

widowmaker
width
widthwise
wield
wieldable
wielder
wiener

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English welden, merging the Old English strong verb wealdan ('to rule, govern, possess') and the weak verb geweldan ('to subdue, control'), both ultimately tracing back to a Proto-Germanic root meaning 'to have power'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wield. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wield
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