handgun

noun

hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
: a firearm (such as a revolver or pistol) designed to be held and fired with one hand

Examples of handgun 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.
Buccino said three shots were fired from handguns. David Ferrara, Cincinnati Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2025 Rosen referenced cases where prosecutors sought an order for a man who had posted social-media threats involving the San Jose Convention Center, and for a county employee who openly brandished and racked a handgun at work. Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 13 Oct. 2025 According to police, a physical fight then ensued when Hampton took out a handgun and allegedly shot Simpson three times. Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025 Victim pronounced dead at hospital According to the local outlets, citing police documents, Hampton allegedly discharged a black and silver handgun and fired at Simpson three times. Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handgun

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handgun was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handgun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handgun. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

handgun

noun
hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
: a firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand

More from Merriam-Webster on handgun

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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