firearm

noun

fire·​arm ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
Synonyms of firearmnext
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
—usually used of small arms

Synonyms of firearm

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Examples of firearm in a Sentence

revolvers, rifles, and other firearms will need a permit to carry a firearm
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 defendant also faces three counts of intentional discharge of firearm causing great bodily injury for the alleged shooting of the two deputies and the PG&E worker. — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Sacramento police said investigators were working to detain a suspect barricaded inside a residence with a possible firearm on Tuesday night. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 The Justice Department⁠ on Wednesday said a federal grand jury indicted two commanders of a powerful Mexican drug cartel, accusing the brothers of trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States and committing firearms offenses. — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 26 Aug. 2026 Prosecutors say one of the weapons used in the shooting was a semiautomatic firearm modified to function as a machine gun. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for firearm

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firearm was in 1643

Rhymes for firearm

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Browse Nearby Words

fire area
firearm
fire arrow
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Cite this Entry

“Firearm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firearm. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

firearm

noun
fire·​arm ˈfī(ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
—usually used only of small arms

More from Merriam-Webster on firearm

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about firearm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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