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.
Images released by authorities of the firearms seized show rows of long rifles and handguns, lined up one by one. Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025 The cost of a quality handgun starts around $400 and can easily exceed $1,000. Jim Turner, Miami Herald, 8 Sep. 2025 The person reporting the robbery said that a cell phone was stolen by a man pointing a handgun, according to police. Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Some states limit gun purchases If someone buys two or more handguns at the same time or within five consecutive business days, the ATF requires that firearms licensees report to them with a multiple sales record. Mara H. Gottfried, Twin Cities, 7 Sep. 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 11 Sep. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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