Noun
a display of force or power
Source: WordNetSpeak softly and carry a big stick. Theodore Roosevelt
Teddy Roosevelt... once said, 'Speak softly and carry a big stick.' Jimmy Carter wants to speak loudly and carry a fly swatter. Gerald Ford
The only safe rule is to promise little, and faithfully to keep every promise; to "speak softly and carry a big stick." Theodore Roosevelt
Though the snake be small, it is still wise to hit it with a big stick. Hindi Proverb
You do not need a big stick to break a cock's head. Nigerian Proverb
Walk softly but carry a big stick. Latin Proverb