weapon

word

/ˈwɛpən/
WE-puhn
/wˈɛpən/
WE-puhn

Definition

A weapon is an object used to hurt, kill, or threaten someone in a fight or attack. It can also be used more broadly for something used to gain power or to attack in a non-physical way.

Usage & Nuances

Most often refers to physical objects like guns, knives, or bombs. Common collocations include 'carry a weapon', 'use a weapon', and 'deadly weapon'. It is also used figuratively in phrases like 'words as a weapon' or 'weaponize information'.

Example Sentences

The police found a weapon in the car.

basic

A knife can be used as a weapon.

basic

The guard was carrying a weapon.

basic

She used humor as a weapon during the argument.

natural

Words can be a weapon if you use them to hurt people.

natural

In the wrong hands, that technology could become a weapon.

natural