Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SWORD, n. [Sax. sword, sweord; G. schwert; D. zwaard; Dan. sværd; Sw. svärd.]

1. An offensive weapon worn at the aide, and used by hand either for thrusting or cutting.
2. Figuratively, destruction by war. I will bring a sword upon you. – Lev. xxvi. Isa. li.
3. Vengeance or justice. She quits the balance, and resigns the sword. – Dryden.
4. Emblem of authority and power. The ruler-beareth not the sword in vain. – Rom. xiii.
5. War; dissension. I came not to send peace but a sword. – Matth. x.
6. Emblem of triumph and protection. The Lord … the sword of thy excellence. – Deut. xxxiii.