Gun: meaning, definitions and examples

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gun

[ ɡʌn ]

Noun

Oxford 3000

^{Context #1 | Noun}

weapon

A weapon incorporating a metal tube from which bullets, shells, or other missiles are propelled by explosive force, typically making a characteristic loud, sharp noise.

Synonyms

firearm, pistol, revolver, rifle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gun	Used as a general term for any kind of firearm. Often used in casual or everyday conversation. He pointed the gun at the target. She collects vintage guns.
firearm	A more formal or technical term for a weapon capable of firing a projectile. Common in legal, technical, or formal settings. There are strict laws regulating firearm possession. He has a license to carry a concealed firearm.
pistol	A type of handgun that is generally more compact. Common in contexts involving personal defense, law enforcement, or small firearms. The police officer drew his pistol. She keeps a pistol in her bedside drawer for security.
rifle	A long-barreled firearm designed for precision shooting, often used in contexts like hunting, sports shooting, or military scenarios. He took his rifle to the shooting range. She used a rifle to hunt deer in the mountains.
revolver	A type of handgun that has a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing. Often mentioned in historical or Western settings. The cowboy had a revolver on his belt. He prefers a revolver over a semi-automatic pistol for its reliability.

Examples of usage

The police officer drew his gun to defend himself.
The criminal pointed the gun at the cashier and demanded money.
She learned how to shoot a gun at the shooting range.
The hunter always carries his gun when he goes hunting.
The soldier loaded his gun before going into battle.

Translations

Translations of the word "gun" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arma de fogo

🇮🇳 बंदूक

🇩🇪 Waffe

🇮🇩 senjata

🇺🇦 гармата

🇵🇱 broń

🇯🇵 銃

🇫🇷 arme à feu

🇪🇸 arma de fuego

🇹🇷 silah

🇰🇷 총

🇸🇦 بندقية

🇨🇿 zbraň

🇸🇰 zbraň

🇨🇳 枪

🇸🇮 pištola

🇮🇸 byssa

🇰🇿 қару

🇬🇪 იარაღი

🇦🇿 silah

🇲🇽 arma de fuego

Etymology

The word 'gun' originated from the Old Norse word 'gunn' which means war. The use of guns dates back to the 14th century when they were first invented. Over the centuries, guns have evolved from simple firearms to more advanced and sophisticated weapons. Guns have played a significant role in warfare, hunting, and self-defense throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,596, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2593 utility
2594 prominent
2595 reaching
2596 gun
2597 entering
2598 ton
2599 appellant
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