Wiktionary
saber rattling
n. (alternative spelling of sabre-rattling English)
WordNet
saber rattling
n. the ostentatious display of military power (with the implied threat that it might be used) [syn: sabre rattling]
Usage examples of "saber rattling".
Unrestrained, Viscount Moritani continued his considerable saber rattling, while several other allied Houses began subtle machinations to portray him as the injured party in the quarrel.
There were disarmament treaties and foreign obligations which would be jeopardized by a fresh round of military saber rattling.
But then she heard the shouts from downstairs, and the saber rattling of knights who had come in pursuit of the very man she had just thrashed.