revolver

noun

re·​volv·​er ri-ˈväl-vər 

-ˈvȯl-,

 also  -ˈvä-vər,

 or  -ˈvȯ-vər

1

: one that revolves

2

: a handgun with a cylinder of several chambers brought successively into line with the barrel and discharged with the same hammer

Examples of revolver in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Officers searched the area of the struggle and found a .22-cal revolver, loaded with six rounds, hidden within a black sock. —Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 16 June 2025

In his side pack, officers found 50 grams of compressed fentanyl, $1,126 in cash, and a revolver. —Jason Motlagh, Rolling Stone, 27 Apr. 2025

Machine guns and pump action guns are banned, while the ownership of revolvers, pistols and semi-automatic weapons are allowed only with official authorization. —USA Today, 11 June 2025

Machine guns and pump action guns are banned, but the ownership of revolvers, pistols and even semi-automatic weapons is allowed as long as applicants go through a permitting and licensing process. —Rob Schmitz, NPR, 10 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

revolve + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for revolver

• resolver
• solver

Kids Definition

revolver

noun

re·​volv·​er ri-ˈväl-vər 

-ˈvȯl-

: a handgun having a revolving cylinder holding several bullets all of which may be shot without loading again