gunfire

noun

gun·​fire ˈgən-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce gunfire (audio)
: the firing of guns

Examples of gunfire in a Sentence

We heard gunfire in the distance.
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.
Nearby homes, buildings and vehicles were struck by gunfire, according to Fox 13. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026 There was gunfire and the medics were trying to evacuate the patients and the staff, Lokudu said by phone. Jean-Yves Kamale, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2026 The number of fatalities was limited by the actions of licensed security guard Amin Abdullah, who bought precious time for survivors by exchanging gunfire with the suspects while also warning others to flee. Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 May 2026 Since then, there have been claims of gunfire and a drone used to disrupt the center's operations; vulgar name-calling online targeting Seymour and his wife; and the occasional middle finger raised in passing by other neighbors who have also become involved. Dana Hedgpeth The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 24 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for gunfire

Word History

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gunfire was in 1727

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Cite this Entry

“Gunfire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunfire. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

gunfire

noun
gun·​fire -ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce gunfire (audio)
: the firing of guns

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