Cartridge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cartridge

[ˈkɑːtrɪdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

ammunition

A cartridge is a case containing a bullet, primer, and powder, used in small arms and small artillery.

Synonyms

ammo, bullet, round.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cartridge

Used to describe a unit consisting of a bullet, casing, primer, and propellant. Often spoken of in a technical or mechanical context, such as firearm maintenance or manufacturing.

  • The soldier checked his cartridge, ensuring it was properly loaded.
  • He purchased a new box of cartridges for his hunting trip.
round

A comprehensive term used to describe a single unit of ammunition. This includes the entire cartridge and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • He loaded the rifle with five rounds.
  • They fired several rounds during the practice session.
ammo

Short for 'ammunition,' this is a more casual term that refers to bullets and other supplies used in guns. Commonly used in everyday speech or informal settings.

  • Let's make sure we have enough ammo before we head out to the range.
  • He stored the leftover ammo in a safe place.
bullet

Refers specifically to the projectile part of the cartridge that is fired from a gun. Often used when talking about the damage it can cause or its flight path.

  • The bullet hit the target right in the center.
  • He found a spent bullet casing on the ground.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier loaded a new cartridge into his rifle.
  • She bought a box of cartridges for her handgun.
Context #2 | Noun

printer

A cartridge is a container holding ink or toner for a printer.

Synonyms

ink cartridge, toner cartridge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cartridge

Typically used to refer to a unit or container that holds a substance or component to be inserted into a machine.

  • The printer needs a new cartridge.
  • I replaced the cartridge in my fountain pen.
ink cartridge

Specifically used in reference to a replaceable component that contains ink for printers or pens.

  • The ink cartridge is almost empty; we need to buy a new one.
  • This printer takes color ink cartridges.
toner cartridge

Used in reference to a replaceable component in laser printers that contains toner powder, which is used for printing.

  • The toner cartridge is out of black toner.
  • Our office printer requires new toner cartridges frequently.

Examples of usage

  • I need to replace the ink cartridge in my printer.
  • The printer came with a black and a color cartridge.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'cartridge'

The word 'cartridge' originated in the early 17th century from the French word 'cartouche', meaning a small, curved container. It was initially used to describe a case for holding a charge for a firearm. Over time, the term expanded to include various forms of ammunition containers, as well as printer cartridges.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,681, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.