gunpowder

noun

gun·​pow·​der ˈgən-ˌpau̇-dər How to pronounce gunpowder (audio)
: an explosive mixture of potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur used in gunnery and blasting
broadly : any of various powders used in guns as propelling charges

Examples of gunpowder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Whelchel argued that physical evidence, including the angle of the gunshots and the gunpowder stippling on Mary Brewer’s hand, showed the couple was executed. Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 June 2024 Though officials have released little information about some of the incidents, department records show at least one involved similar concerns about the buildup of gunpowder. Keri Blakinger, Los Angeles Times, 24 May 2024 As with other indoor ranges, shooting trailers require regular cleaning to prevent a dangerous buildup of lead and gunpowder. Keri Blakinger, Los Angeles Times, 24 May 2024 In July 1693, for example, Thomas Tew of Rhode Island plundered £100,000 of gold and silver, gems, pearls, elephant tusks, spices, silk, and gunpowder from a ship bound for what is now Saudi Arabia. Sean Kingsley, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for gunpowder 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gunpowder.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near gunpowder

Cite this Entry

“Gunpowder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunpowder. Accessed 13 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

gunpowder

noun
gun·​pow·​der -ˌpau̇d-ər How to pronounce gunpowder (audio)
: an explosive mixture used in guns and blasting

More from Merriam-Webster on gunpowder

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