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Definition of firearm

firearm

/ˈfaɪər.ɑːrm/
fire · arm
Plural:firearms
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firearm Lexical Profile

firearm Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A portable weapon, such as a rifle or pistol, from which a projectile is discharged by the explosion of a propellant.

Example

"The security officer was required to undergo extensive safety training before being authorized to carry a firearm on duty."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for firearm

Word Nuance & Usage

In legal and technical contexts, 'firearm' specifically denotes a portable weapon discharged by an explosive, distinguishing it from larger artillery or air-powered guns.

• Nearby Words

fire reel
fire skink
fireable
firearm
fireball
firebird
fireboat

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the mid-17th century, formed as a compound of 'fire' and 'arm' (in the sense of a weapon) to distinguish gunpowder-based weapons from traditional cold weapons like swords and bows.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Firearm. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/firearm
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