handgun

noun

hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
Synonyms of handgunnext
: a firearm (such as a revolver or pistol) designed to be held and fired with one hand

Examples of handgun 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.
Investigators said a handgun belonging to Cavazos was found at least 10 yards from his body. — Madison Lambert, NBC news, 30 Aug. 2026 The second, while there were no victims, led to the arrest of a 15-year-old boy who was charged with 33 counts of first-degree wanton endangerment and one count of possession of a handgun by a minor. — Ruby Grisin, Louisville Courier Journal, 30 Aug. 2026 According to the prosecutor's office, Gordon is also accused of firing a handgun at a vehicle passing the scene with two people inside. — Natalie Davies, Freep.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Investigators previously said Mays pulled out a handgun and fired first, prompting others to fire back. — Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handgun

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handgun was in the 15th century

Rhymes for handgun

See All Rhymes for handgun

Browse Nearby Words

handguard
handgun
handhabend
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

handgun

noun
hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
: a firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand

More from Merriam-Webster on handgun

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for handgun

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about handgun

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