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to look daggers at somebody
01
to look at a person in a way that shows one hates them or is very angry with them
![to [look] daggers at {sb} definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44558/original/?type=jpeg "to [look] daggers at {sb} definition and meaning")
Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "look daggers at someone" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "look daggers at someone" is linked to the historical association of daggers or knives with threat and danger. In centuries past, people commonly carried daggers, which were sharp and potentially lethal weapons. The act of looking at someone with intense anger or hostility, often accompanied by sharp or piercing glares, was likened to threatening them with a metaphorical dagger or knife. It is often used in situations of conflict, disagreement, or when someone's behavior or actions are seen as unacceptable.
Examples
When Sarah arrived late for the meeting, her boss looked daggers at her, clearly displeased with her tardiness.
During the heated argument, Jane and Tom exchanged harsh words and looked daggers at each other, their anger evident in their expressions.
