Bludgeon

Noun

Definition: A short, heavy club with a thick end, used as a weapon.

Synonyms: Cudgel, Truncheon, Baton

Antonyms: (none)

Examples:

The thief attacked the victim with a bludgeon.
The police officer held a bludgeon for self-defense.

Mnemonics:

Picture a heavy club with a thick end used for hitting.

Verb

Definition: To beat or strike someone repeatedly and violently, usually with a heavy object.

Definition: To force or bully someone into doing something.

Synonyms: Beat, Pummel, Batter

Antonyms: Persuade, Convince

Examples:

The attacker bludgeoned his victim until they were unconscious.
The boss bludgeoned his employees into working overtime.

Mnemonics:

Think of forcefully hitting someone with a heavy object, like a bludgeon.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (as a noun): probably of Celtic origin; related to Irish and Scottish Gaelic bludgeon, Welsh plygell 'baton'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the late Middle English period, primarily referring to a heavy club used as a weapon.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Bludgeon through"

Explanation:

To forcefully push through or overcome a difficult situation or obstacle.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the verb form of 'bludgeon' with 'bludgeon' as a noun.

Explanation:

While 'bludgeon' can be used as both a noun and a verb, the meanings are different. It's important to understand the context in which the word is used to avoid confusion.