gunpoint

noun

gun·​point ˈgən-ˌpȯint How to pronounce gunpoint (audio)
: the muzzle of a gun

see also at gunpoint

Examples of gunpoint in a Sentence

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.
The crew pulled the car over at gunpoint and illegally detained the two, insurance department investigators said. Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026 The victim was attempting to sell a pair of shoes to an acquaintance when he was robbed at gunpoint. Erik S. Hanley, jsonline.com, 8 Jan. 2026 Deputies said initial statements claimed he had been kidnapped and robbed at gunpoint by two unknown suspects who then allegedly restrained him and set the vehicle on fire. Jennifer McRae, CBS News, 7 Jan. 2026 The customer was held at gunpoint by two suspects who had also been at the shop earlier, according to KTLA. Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gunpoint

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gunpoint was in 1889

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gunpoint.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunpoint. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

gunpoint

noun
gun·​point ˈgən-ˌpȯint How to pronounce gunpoint (audio)
: the muzzle of a gun

More from Merriam-Webster on gunpoint

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!