Hilt Meaning in English

word

US

ˈhɪɫt

HILT

UK

hˈɪlt

HILT

Definition

The hilt is the handle of a sword or knife, the part you hold while using it.

Usage & Nuances

"Hilt" is most often used for swords, knives, or similar weapons. The phrase "to the hilt" means "to the maximum" or "completely" (e.g., 'paid to the hilt'). Rarely used for modern kitchen knives. Not to be confused with "handle" (more general).

• Spanish: empuñadura (de espada/cuchillo)
• Portuguese (BR): empunhadura (de espada/faca)
• Portuguese (PT): guarda (de espada/faca)
• Chinese (Simplified): 刀柄 - 剑柄
• Chinese (Traditional): 刀柄 - 劍柄
• Hindi: मुट्ठी (तलवार/चाकू की)
• Arabic: مقبض (السيف/السكين)
• Bengali: মুঁড়ো - হাতল (তলোয়ার/ছুরি)
• Russian: гарда - эфес
• Japanese: 柄（つか）
• Vietnamese: chuôi (kiếm/dao) - cán (kiếm/dao)
• Korean: 자루
• Turkish: kabza - sap (kılıç/bıçak)
• Urdu: دستہ (تلوار/چھری)
• Indonesian: gagang (pedang/pisau)

Example Sentences

She gripped the hilt tightly during the duel.

basic

The sword's hilt was decorated with jewels.

basic

Be careful—the hilt is sharp at the edges.

basic

He bought a sword with a silver hilt at the antique shop.

natural

The hero drew his sword, fingers wrapped firmly around the hilt.

natural

She held onto the hilt as if her life depended on it.

natural