Refers to a short-bladed weapon, typically double-edged. Used in historical, fantasy, or descriptive contexts.
He carried a dagger for self-defense.
Used in contrast with 長剣 (ちょうけん, minute hand). This sense is a specialized horological term.
See also: 長剣 (ちょうけん)
The hour hand of the clock was pointing to three o'clock.