Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

saber-rattling

noun
/ˈseɪbər ˌrætlɪŋ/
Definition
The act of displaying military power to intimidate or threaten an opponent.
Examples
  • The recent saber-rattling between the two nations raised concerns about a potential war.
  • Many critics argue that saber-rattling only escalates tensions without providing any real solutions.
Meaning
Saber-rattling refers to the aggressive posturing often exhibited by a country or political entity to signal strength or readiness to engage in conflict without necessarily taking direct action.
Synonyms
  • military posturing
  • threatening behavior
  • aggressive signaling