dagger

UK: ˈdæɡə | US: ˈdæɡər

Definition
  1. n. a short, pointed knife used as a weapon

  2. n. (printing) a symbol (†) used as a reference mark or to indicate death

Structure
dag <to pierce, Old English>er <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "dagger" traces back to Middle English daggere, likely derived from Old English dæg or Old French dague, both meaning "to pierce." The -er suffix is a common noun-forming ending in English. Historically, daggers were piercing weapons, and the name reflects their function. The printing symbol (†) resembles a dagger's crossguard, hence its name.

Examples
  1. The assassin concealed a dagger beneath his cloak.

  2. In medieval times, a dagger was a secondary weapon for knights.

  3. The footnote was marked with a dagger symbol.

  4. She drew her dagger swiftly to defend herself.

  5. The museum displayed an ornate dagger from the 15th century.