air rifle

noun

: a rifle whose projectile (such as a BB or pellet) is propelled by compressed air or carbon dioxide

Examples of air rifle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers acknowledged that this wasn’t very helpful to the average homeowner, who may not be able to hire a professional air rifle marksman to deal with their lizard issue. — Alex Harris august 25, Miami Herald, 25 Aug. 2026 Last month, a 23-year-old man was shot by a PBSO deputy near Delray Beach, also during a wellness check, after the man allegedly pointed an air rifle at deputies. — Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026 At approximately noon today, the first medals of the Centennial Olympic Games will be awarded in women’s air rifle at Wolf Creek. — Adam Van Brimmer, AJC.com, 20 July 2026 Authorities also reportedly recovered two 9mm caliber casings, two projectile fragments, an air rifle and Luiz's cellphone. — Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for air rifle

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of air rifle was in 1801

Rhymes for air rifle

See All Rhymes for air rifle

Browse Nearby Words

air receiver
air rifle
air right
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Air rifle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/air%20rifle. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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