holster

noun

hol·​ster ˈhōl-stər How to pronounce holster (audio)
: a leather or fabric case for carrying a firearm on the person (as on the hip or chest), on a saddle, or in a vehicle
broadly : a case for carrying a usually small item on the person
a knife holster
a heart monitor carried in a hip holster

Examples of holster 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.
But Publix was an exception at the time, announcing last fall that customers could wander the aisles with firearm in holster at their waist. Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 8 May 2026 Warren pressed a handgun underneath the driver’s body armor and removed the driver’s gun from a holster. Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2026 Allen was also carrying a third holster that appeared to hold three knives, which The New York Times reported were recovered from him at the scene. Sean Neumann, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026 Then the doors burst open, and scores of Secret Service agents rushed into the room, many with hands on holsters. William Earl, Variety, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for holster

Word History

Etymology

Dutch; akin to Old English heolstor cover, helan to conceal — more at hell

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of holster was in 1663

Cite this Entry

“Holster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holster. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

holster

noun
hol·​ster ˈhōl(t)-stər How to pronounce holster (audio)
: a usually leather case for carrying a pistol

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