firearm

[fahyuhr-ahrm]

noun

1. a small arms arm weapon, as a rifle or pistol, from which a projectile is fired by gunpowder.

firearm

/ ˈfaɪərˌɑːm /

noun

1. a weapon, esp a portable gun or pistol, from which a projectile can be discharged by an explosion caused by igniting gunpowder, etc

Other Word Forms

• firearmed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of firearm¹

First recorded in 1640–50; fire + arm ²

Example Sentences

The police also said they found two firearms, including a loaded pistol, in Cutler’s vehicle.

From Los Angeles Times

Authorities obtained a search warrant for the property after receiving a report last month that someone at the property had a firearm, which are federally regulated in Canada.

From BBC

Prosecutors have also filed additional charges against McCain, including illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition after a protective order had been issued following the alleged domestic violence incident, and before Nikki went missing.

From Los Angeles Times

“At the time of this interference, the government vehicle had keys inside as well as a firearm locked in a safe also inside the vehicle.”

From Los Angeles Times

The tribunal heard that the firearms officers approached Storm for a photograph after recognising her while out on patrol in Edinburgh.

From BBC

Related Words

• handgun 
• musket 
• pistol 
• revolver 
• rifle 
• shotgun 
• weapon