firearm

noun

fire·​arm ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
usually used of small arms

Examples of firearm in a Sentence

revolvers, rifles, and other firearms will need a permit to carry a firearm
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.
Weapons of any kind including, but not limited to, firearms and knives. Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 14 July 2025 Outside the restaurant, a security guard approached Hodgson and asked him to leave since firearms were not allowed on the property, according to the news release. Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025 More than a dozen of the recruits spent this past week at the NYPD range in Rodman’s Neck to make sure they’re certified on firearms before the graduation, the sources said. Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 11 July 2025 Gunfire report leads to drugs Police responding to reports of gunfire at a Gurnee area home did not find any firearms. Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for firearm

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firearm was in 1643

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Firearm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firearm. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

firearm

noun
fire·​arm ˈfī(ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
usually used only of small arms

More from Merriam-Webster on firearm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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