Literary notes about Disarming (AI summary)
"Disarming" in literature exhibits a fascinating duality, functioning both as a literal action and as a metaphor for charm. In narratives with military or political themes, the term often refers to the physical removal of arms to subdue threats or signal pacification—as seen when authorities engage in the disarming of soldiers or garrisons ([1], [2], [3]). In contrast, in character-driven or interpersonal contexts, "disarming" describes a smile, manner, or remark that unexpectedly neutralizes hostility or suspicion, endearing the speaker to others and defusing tense situations ([4], [5], [6], [7], [8]). Through these usages, literature employs "disarming" both to depict tangible acts of defusing conflict and to underscore the subtle power of personal warmth and sincerity.
- But he finished with Pedro's wound, and rose, somewhat giddy, to ask assistance in disarming.
— from The Crimson Conquest: A Romance of Pizarro and Peru by Charles B. (Charles Bradford) Hudson - The Central Committee, elected by the delegates of the National Guard, had just protested against any attempt at disarming the citizen soldiery.
— from The Downfall (La Débâcle): A Story of the Horrors of War by Émile Zola - From this it follows that the disarming or overthrow of the enemy, whichever we call it, must always be the aim of Warfare.
— from On War by Carl von Clausewitz - It was such a jolly boy's laugh, low, with a mischievous chuckle in it, elated, and very disarming.
— from The Dark Tower by Phyllis Bottome - He broke in with a most disarming smile.
— from The Tidal Wave and Other Stories by Ethel M. (Ethel May) Dell - But Severance had greeted him without rancor and with the disarming guise of candid friendliness.
— from The Law of Hemlock Mountain by Hugh Lundsford - So now I was able to reply with a manly, disarming frankness.
— from Right Ho, Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse - You see, Judge,” the man went on, encouraged by the judge’s disarming smile, “I knew this boy was a detective.
— from The Arrow of FireA Mystery Story for Boys by Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
