hilt

noun

ˈhilt How to pronounce hilt (audio)
Synonyms of hilt
: a handle especially of a sword or dagger
see also:
to the hilt

Examples of hilt in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If the blade has no mass, the lightsaber will rotate about the center of the hilt. — Rhett Allain, Wired News, 4 May 2026 The hilt of a sword protruded from his back, snug beside a pack as tight as an angry fist. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 18 May 2026 Phoebe Cates play the nymphette Linda to the hilt, showing only now and again the lost little girl inside. — Gina Friedlande, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026 That passion to play every moment to the hilt, along with her powerful hitting stroke, that came with being a coach’s daughter. — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hilt

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German helza hilt

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hilt was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing hilt

Rhymes for hilt

See All Rhymes for hilt

Browse Nearby Words

hilsa
hilt
Hilton
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hilt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hilt. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hilt

noun
ˈhilt How to pronounce hilt (audio)
: a handle especially of a sword or dagger

More from Merriam-Webster on hilt

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for hilt

Nglish: Translation of hilt for Spanish Speakers

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