pistol

noun

pis·​tol ˈpi-stᵊl 

1

: a handgun whose chamber is integral with the barrel

broadly : handgun

2

: a notably sharp, spirited, or energetic person

pistol transitive verb

Synonyms of pistol

• dynamo

Examples of pistol in a Sentence

a real pistol, she dances rings around the other performers

Recent Examples on the Web

Since then, the FBI obtained Nest doorbell imagery with the help of Google that shows a masked man of average height and build carrying a holstered pistol at Guthrie's front steps around the time of her abduction. —Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 9 May 2026

In April 2024, a man wanted in a Sacramento homicide who was allegedly armed with a pistol was fatally shot by Oakland officers in the 1000 block of 16th Street. —Rick Hurd, Mercury News, 8 May 2026

However, investigators also located the key to tracking down her killer 30 yards away -- a black Glock 19 pistol. —Mason Leath, ABC News, 8 May 2026

Following that memo, the USPS proposed a new rule in April that would allow people to mail firearms like pistols and revolvers. —Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 7 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle French pistole, from German, from Middle High German pischulle, from Czech píšt'ala, literally, pipe, fife; akin to Czech pištět to squeak

First Known Use

circa 1560, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pistol

• machine pistol
• pistol grip
• pistol-whip
• Very pistol
• water pistol

Rhymes for pistol

• distal
• pistil
• polycrystal

Kids Definition

pistol

noun

pis·​tol ˈpis-tᵊl 

: a short firearm made to be aimed and fired with one hand

Etymology

from early French pistole "pistol," from German pistole (same meaning), derived from Czech píšt'ala, literally, "pipe, fife"