firearm

noun

fire·​arm ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌärm 

: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder

—usually used of small arms

Synonyms of firearm

• gun

Examples of firearm in a Sentence

revolvers, rifles, and other firearms

will need a permit to carry a firearm

Recent Examples on the Web

Officers say six firearms were recovered at one of their homes, including the one stolen in Miami Springs. — Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026

The Omaha Police Department said officers will continue to carry tasers, batons, OC spray and firearms. — Kathy McCormack, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026

John Nunez, his 16-year-old pal, and a third teen were playing with the firearm inside a bedroom of a home on Prospect Ave. — Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 20 Aug. 2026

Agents make the arrest On Wednesday, Bowie met up with two informants in a car and paid $150 for a firearm (that was inert), ammunition and one magazine, the complaint alleges. — Lila Dominus, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for firearm

• alarm
• disarm
• forearm
• gendarme
• nonfarm
• rearm
• arm
• charm
• farm
• harm
• underarm

Kids Definition

firearm

noun

fire·​arm ˈfī(ə)r-ˌärm 

: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder

—usually used only of small arms