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

Whether a man chose to use that pistol or meekly give up the money to a robber was up to him. —Richard Selcer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Apr. 2026

Gonzalez Nava was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on March 11, the same day a search of his New London residence turned up four firearms, including semi-automatic pistols and a shotgun, officials said. —Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 25 Apr. 2026

Other projectiles, including pistol shot and lead musket balls, were also found. —Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2026

During the timeframe, Provette De Faria sent pictures and videos to a cooperating witness showing firearms – pistols and rifles – and offering them for sale. —Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 23 Apr. 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"