Search Dictionary
Definition of firearm
firearm
/ˈfaɪər.ɑːrm/
fire · arm
Plural:firearms
firearm Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
firearm Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• 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 firearmWord 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.
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.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Firearm. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/firearm