bolt-action

adjective

bolt-ac·​tion ˈbōlt-ˈak-shən 

of a firearm

: loaded by means of a manually operated bolt

Examples of bolt-action in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Here's a look at how bolt-action rifles work and their legality in Indiana. — Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 12 Sep. 2025

Sajid Akram legally owned six guns, including the two shotguns and two bolt-action rifles used at Bondi. — CNN Money, 21 Dec. 2025

Recovered evidence includes a bolt-action rifle and forensic impressions lifted from the rooftop, including palm and forearm imprints and footwear marks. — Nicole Acosta, PEOPLE, 15 Sep. 2025

The gunman used a bolt-action rifle, according to a law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. — Jamie Stengle, Twin Cities, 24 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bolt-action

• abstraction
• attraction
• compaction
• contraction
• detraction
• diffraction
• distraction
• exaction
• extraction
• impaction
• inaction
• infraction