wand

Everyday

1. A wand is a thin stick used by a magician, wizard or fairy to do magic tricks or spells. tree →
2. A wand is any thin rod or stick-shaped tool, such as a mascara wand or a metal-detector wand. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and fairy tales wizards and fairies wave wands to cast spells (Harry Potter, Cinderella's fairy godmother). In real life magicians use a wand as part of a trick; it has no real power — the magic is skill and misdirection. In airports, security staff use a hand-held wand to check for metal. Phrases: «wave a wand», «magic wand», «there is no magic wand» (no quick, easy solution).

Examples

• The fairy godmother waved her wand. tree →
• The magician tapped the hat with his wand. tree →
• I made a wand from a stick and glitter. tree →
• Harry Potter's wand had a phoenix feather inside. tree →
• Security checked her with a wand at the airport. tree →
• There's no magic wand to fix it — we need to work hard. tree →
• Wands can't really do magic; magicians use tricks. tree →
• “So saying, she touched me with her wand, and I became what you see. tree →

Note

Plural: wands. Said «wond» (rhymes with «pond»). Do not confuse with «want» or «wander».