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 of small arms

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.
Growing up around firearms The source familiar with the investigation, however, said that authorities learned Roley grew up with a family that had firearms and felt comfortable handling them. Mike Levine, ABC News, 1 July 2025 During his initial court appearance on Sunday, Leto, who had a valid firearm owner’s identification card and concealed carry license, was ordered held pending trial. Sam Charles, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025 But the best advice, in this regard, is not about firearms at all. Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 30 June 2025 Biddle said a firearms expert was expected to testify that the gun was linked to two casings found at the shooting scene. City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 June 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Firearm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firearm. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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