verb

brandir

brandish

Lever quelque chose en l’air pour le montrer ou pour menacer.

Word: brandir

Meaning:
"Brandir" is a French verb meaning "to brandish" or "to wave" something, usually a weapon or an object, in a dramatic or threatening manner. It conveys the action of lifting, raising, or waving an item shakily or vigorously, often to show it or to threaten.

Usage and context:

Typically used when referring to waving or raising weapons (like swords, flags, or guns)
Can also apply to handing over or showing something with a gesture

Examples:

Il brandissait un drapeau. — He was brandishing a flag.
Elle brandit une arme pour se défendre. — She brandished a weapon to defend herself.

Etymology:
Comes from Old French "brandir," related to the word "brand," which means a sword or burning piece of wood (a brand).

Synonyms:

agiter (to wave)
exhiber (to display)
montrer (to show)

Antonyms:

cacher (to hide)
baisser (to lower)
abaisser (to lower, bring down)

Summary:
"Brandir" means to raise or wave something prominently, often in a way to attract attention or intimidate, commonly associated with weapons or flags.