handgun

noun

hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən 

: 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

Paz was arrested last year on several charges after fleeing from police at a traffic stop and driving at speeds up to 80 mph while firing a handgun at officers, according to the release. — Harllie Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 30 Oct. 2026

In all, five Glock handguns were recovered in Aliquippa and New Brighton. — Jennifer Borrasso, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026

Another misunderstanding at the heart of conversations on gun reform is the belief that assault rifles cause a disproportionate number of homicides, when more deaths are attributable to handguns. — Shelby Hartman, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Six additional states require registration of some firearms, such as handguns or those defined as assault weapons, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for handgun

• begun
• grandson
• gudrun
• homespun
• outdone
• outrun
• pashtun
• redone
• rerun
• shotgun
• someone
• stepson

Kids Definition

handgun

noun

hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən 

: a firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand