Pronunciation: [dˈaɡə] (IPA) 
The word "dagger" is spelled with the letters d-a-g-g-e-r in English. The /d/ sound at the beginning is a voiced dental plosive, while the /g/ sound is a voiced velar plosive. The /e/ in the middle of the word makes the preceding /g/ sound soft, as in "edge". The second /g/ sound at the end is also soft, and the /er/ makes an unstressed schwa sound. Overall, the IPA transcription of "dagger" is /ˈdæɡər/.
A dagger is a short, pointed weapon that is primarily used for stabbing. It typically consists of a double-edged blade with a sharp point and a handle for gripping. The blade of a dagger is generally between 6 and 18 inches long, making it shorter than a sword but longer than a knife. Daggers can vary in design and style, but the primary function remains the same – to pierce or stab an opponent.
Historically, daggers have been employed as both a concealed weapon for self-defense and a tool for combat. They have been utilized by warriors, soldiers, and assassins throughout different periods and cultures. Due to their compact size, daggers are often favored in close-quarters combat, enabling quick and swift attacks.
In addition to their use in warfare, daggers have also played a symbolic role in various traditions, rituals, and ceremonies. They have been associated with power, authority, and social status, often denoting ranks or positions of importance.
Today, daggers are primarily used for ceremonial purposes, decorative display, or as collectibles. Some martial arts disciplines incorporate dagger techniques into their training, emphasizing precise and strategic moves. The term "dagger" can also be used metaphorically to describe a sharp criticism or a striking point in an argument or debate.
• A short sword; a poniard; a mark of reference - thus (+).
• To pierce or stab with a dagger; to look daggers, to look fiercely or reproachfully: daggers drawn, at enmity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "dagger" originated from the Old French term "dague", which came from the Middle Latin term "daca". This Latin term was borrowed from the Old Occitan word "daga" or "daga", meaning "knife" or "dagger". The ultimate source of the word may be the Gothic word "dags" or the Old Norse word "döggva", both of which mean "dagger". The use of the term "dagger" can be traced back to the 14th century in English.
