gunpoint

noun

gun·​point ˈgən-ˌpȯint How to pronounce gunpoint (audio)
: the muzzle of a gun
Phrases
at gunpoint
: under a threat of death by being shot

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.
An off-duty NYPD cop was carjacked at gunpoint in the Bronx, police sources said Sunday. John Annese, New York Daily News, 6 July 2025 Police busted four suspects who allegedly robbed a jewelry store at gunpoint on Thursday, according to police who were searching for a fifth suspect. Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 4 July 2025 Officers drew their service weapons and held Simpson at gunpoint while commanding him numerous times to drop his firearm. Quinlan Bentley, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 Capricorn Clark, a former assistant to Combs, told jurors Combs forced her from her apartment at gunpoint to go with him to musician Kid Cudi’s home in December 2011. Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for gunpoint

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gunpoint was in 1951

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gunpoint.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunpoint. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

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
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