breechloader

noun

breech·​load·​er ˈbrēch-ˈlō-dər How to pronounce breechloader (audio)
: a firearm that loads at the breech
The first really satisfactory American breechloader was developed at Harpers Ferry by Christian Sharps, whose superior gun helped make the word sharpshooter a common American noun.Bernard Brodie and Fawn M. Brodie
compare muzzleloader
breech-loading adjective
a breech-loading rifle

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breechloader was in 1855

Dictionary Entries Near breechloader

Cite this Entry

“Breechloader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breechloader. Accessed 2 Nov. 2024.

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