Kalashnikov

noun

Ka·​lash·​ni·​kov kə-ˈlash-nə-ˌkȯf How to pronounce Kalashnikov (audio)
-ˈläsh-,
-ˈkäf
: a Soviet-designed assault rifle
especially : ak-47

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web He was issued a Kalashnikov rifle, 120 bullets, an armored vest and a helmet for the assault. Andrew E. Kramer, BostonGlobe.com, 22 Apr. 2023 The parent company of the firm that designed the drone, the Kalashnikov Group, a major Russian weapons manufacturer, has publicly challenged the West’s technology restrictions. Matina Stevis-gridneff, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2023 The Gramsh military plant opened in 1962 to produce AK-47, or Kalashnikov, rifles. Ap, Bloomberg.com, 21 Aug. 2022

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

Word History

Etymology

after Mixail Timofeevič Kalašnikov †2013 Soviet weapons designer

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Kalashnikov was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near Kalashnikov

Cite this Entry

“Kalashnikov.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Kalashnikov. Accessed 3 Jun. 2023.

More from Merriam-Webster on Kalashnikov

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