big stick

big stick

n. A display of power or a threat: a foreign policy that relied on the big stick.

big stick

n informal force or the threat of using force adj (Military) of, or relating to, irresistible military strength

big′ stick′

n. political or military force used as a threat. [1895–1900]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

big stick - a display of force or power; "speak softly but carry a big stick"display, show - something intended to communicate a particular impression; "made a display of strength"; "a show of impatience"; "a good show of looking interested"