Word
firearm
Meanings
A gun that fires bullets by using explosive force.
A general term used in laws or official contexts to refer to guns collectively.
Definition
A firearm is a weapon that shoots bullets using an explosive force.
A firearm is a gun designed to fire a projectile, usually a bullet, by using the energy from burning propellant. Common examples include pistols, rifles, and shotguns. The word is often used in formal or technical contexts such as laws, safety rules, and news reports.
Examples
- The museum’s new exhibit explains how a firearm functions, from ignition to recoil, without glorifying its use.
- She reported the missing firearm to the authorities as soon as she noticed the safe had been opened.
- They revised the company’s security protocol after a visitor attempted to bring a firearm onto the premises.
- I recognized the object as a firearm only when the light caught the metal, so I stepped back and called for help.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use “firearm” to mean any weapon, but it refers specifically to guns that fire bullets or similar projectiles.
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