ramrod — a rod used to ram down the charge in a muzzle-loading firearm
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a rod used to ram down the charge in a muzzle-loading firearm
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈræmˌrɑd/
Example Sentences
- My drill sergeant had ramrod posture that made everyone stand straighter.
- The CEO tried to ramrod his pet project through the board meeting like a bulldozer through a flower garden.
- She's such a ramrod that she makes robots look flexible.
ramrod
NOUN[/ˈræmˌrɑd/]
a rod used to ram down the charge in a muzzle-loading firearm
Rod for loading muzzle-loading firearms
From ramrod to hot rod to lightning rod!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Ramrod emerged in the 18th century as a compound word combining 'ram' (to push or force) and 'rod' (a stick or bar). Originally referring to the metal rod used to load ammunition into firearms, the term gradually evolved to describe stern, inflexible individuals or coercive actions.
Breakdown
ram (to push forcefully) + rod (a stick or cylindrical bar). The compound initially referred to the literal tool used in charging cannons and muskets, later acquiring figurative meanings related to rigidity and authoritarian behavior.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My drill sergeant had ramrod posture that made everyone stand straighter.”
“The CEO tried to ramrod his pet project through the board meeting like a bulldozer through a flower garden.”
“She's such a ramrod that she makes robots look flexible.”
“The antique gun collector carefully cleaned the ramrod before storing it.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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