noun
ramrod
RAM-rod
Ramrod (noun) means a rod once used to push ammunition and powder down the barrel of an old-fashioned firearm. Example: “The re-enactor demonstrated how to load a musket with a ramrod.”
noun
1
A rod once used to push ammunition and powder down the barrel of an old-fashioned firearm.
"The re-enactor demonstrated how to load a musket with a ramrod."
adj
1
Extremely straight and rigid, especially describing posture.
"The sergeant stood ramrod straight during the inspection."
How to use ramrod
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOriginally a tool for loading old firearms; now mostly used to describe someone standing perfectly straight and stiff.
Common pairings
ramrod straight
ramrod posture
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Word forms
- Plural
- ramrods
- Third person singular
- ramrods
- Past tense
- ramrodded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The re-enactor demonstrated how to load a musket with a _____.
Etymology
A straightforward compound of ram ("to force something in") and rod.
Frequently asked questions
What does “ramrod” mean?
The word “ramrod” means a rod once used to push ammunition and powder down the barrel of an old-fashioned firearm. In plain terms, originally a tool for loading old firearms; now mostly used to describe someone standing perfectly straight and stiff.
How do you pronounce “ramrod”?
“Ramrod” is pronounced RAM-rod (/ˈɹæmɹɑd/ in IPA).
How do you use “ramrod” in a sentence?
Here is “ramrod” used in a sentence: “The re-enactor demonstrated how to load a musket with a ramrod.”
What part of speech is “ramrod”?
Depending on how it is used, “ramrod” can be a noun and an adjective.
How many meanings does “ramrod” have?
“Ramrod” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rod once used to push ammunition and powder down the barrel of an old-fashioned firearm.
