firearm — a weapon that fires bullets or shells, such as a pistol or rifle
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a weapon that fires bullets or shells, such as a pistol or rifle
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈfaɪərɑːrm/
Example Sentences
- The detective's firearm was actually just a water gun filled with coffee.
- All firearms must be registered with local authorities.
- The museum displayed historical firearms from the 18th century.
firearm
NOUN[/ˈfaɪərɑːrm/]
a weapon that fires bullets or shells, such as a pistol or rifle
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Firearm emerged in the 17th century as a compound word combining 'fire' and 'arm', referring to weapons that discharge projectiles using gunpowder with an accompanying flash. The term reflected the revolutionary technology of gunpowder-based weaponry that distinguished these arms from earlier medieval weapons.
Breakdown
fire (combustion; discharge) + arm (weapon) = a weapon employing fire and gunpowder for projectile discharge.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The detective's firearm was actually just a water gun filled with coffee.”
“All firearms must be registered with local authorities.”
“The museum displayed historical firearms from the 18th century.”
“He accidentally brought a toy firearm to the airport security check.”
📚Related Words
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