firearm
FEYE-uhr-ahm
Firearm (noun) means a weapon, such as a gun, that uses an explosive charge to fire a projectile. Example: “A licence is required to legally own a firearm in most countries.”
noun
1
A weapon, such as a gun, that uses an explosive charge to fire a projectile.
"David was arrested for illegal possession of firearms."
"A licence is required to legally own a firearm in most countries."
"The museum displayed an antique firearm behind thick glass."
"Hunters must store each firearm in a locked cabinet at home."
How to use firearm
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA general term for guns and similar weapons.
When to use it
More formal/legal than the everyday word "gun."
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Word forms
- Plural
- firearms
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A licence is required to legally own a _____ in most countries.
Etymology
A compound of fire (in the sense of "discharge a projectile") and arm ("weapon").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
cold weapon
white arm
Related words
Rhymes for firearm
See all rhymes for firearm →Frequently asked questions
What does “firearm” mean?
The word “firearm” means a weapon, such as a gun, that uses an explosive charge to fire a projectile. In plain terms, a general term for guns and similar weapons.
How do you pronounce “firearm”?
“Firearm” is pronounced FEYE-uhr-ahm (/ˈfaɪəɹˌɑː(ɹ)m/ in IPA).
How do you use “firearm” in a sentence?
Here is “firearm” used in a sentence: “A licence is required to legally own a firearm in most countries.”
What is the opposite of “firearm”?
The opposite of “firearm” — its antonyms — are cold weapon and white arm.
What part of speech is “firearm”?
“Firearm” is a noun.
Is “firearm” a common word?
“Firearm” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a firearm and a gun?
Firearm is a more formal and precise term used especially in legal and technical contexts, referring specifically to a weapon that fires a projectile using an explosive charge. Gun is a broader, more informal word that people often use interchangeably with firearm, but it can also loosely refer to other projectile devices.
Is firearm a formal or informal word?
Firearm is generally the more formal term, commonly used in legal documents, news reporting, and official contexts, whereas gun is the everyday, informal equivalent.
What counts as a firearm?
A firearm is any weapon that uses an explosive charge to propel a projectile, which includes handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Devices that fire projectiles without an explosive charge, such as air guns or bows, are generally not classified as firearms.
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