blandir

Blandir is a Spanish verb that means to wave or brandish something, usually a weapon or an object, in a threatening or vigorous manner. It often implies a physical action where someone raises and shakes or swings an object, typically a sword, knife, stick, or similar item.

Meaning:

• To wield, swing, or brandish: For example, "Él blandió la espada" means "He brandished the sword."
• It can also imply the idea of threateningly displaying something to intimidate or scare.

Etymology:

• Comes from the Old Spanish verb blandir of uncertain origin.

Usage:

• Blandir un arma (to brandish a weapon)
• Often used in literary or descriptive contexts.

Synonyms:

• Empuñar (to grasp or wield, especially weapons)
• Agitar (to shake or wave)
• Someter (contextually can mean to subdue, but less direct)

Antonyms:

• Guardar (to put away or keep, i.e., opposite of showing or brandishing)
• Soltar (to release, but less directly an antonym)

Example sentence:

• El soldado blandió su sable en señal de desafío.
  (The soldier brandished his saber as a sign of challenge.)

In summary, blandir refers to the act of holding and waving a weapon or object, often in a manner that is threatening or demonstrative.