Gunman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
gunman
[หษกสnmษn ]
Definitions
criminal activity
A gunman is a person who is armed with a gun, especially one who uses a gun to commit crimes such as robbery or murder.
Synonyms
armed criminal, gunfighter, shooter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gunman |
Typically used in news reports or formal communications to describe a person, usually a male, who carries and often uses a gun to commit a crime.
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| gunfighter |
Primarily used in historical or Western contexts, referring to someone skilled in using guns, often featuring in duels or showdowns.
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| shooter |
More informal, used to describe someone who shoots, often in connection with sports or incidents involving firearms. In some situations, could imply negative connotations if related to criminal activities.
|
| armed criminal |
Used in broader contexts, especially in legal or official documents, to describe someone who commits crimes while carrying a weapon, which doesn't necessarily need to be a gun.
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Examples of usage
- The gunman entered the bank and demanded money at gunpoint.
- The police are searching for the gunman responsible for the shooting.
military context
In a military context, a gunman is a member of a military unit who is trained in the use of firearms.
Examples of usage
- The gunmen advanced towards the enemy position under cover of darkness.
- The special forces team included expert gunmen.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'gunman' originated in 19th century America, describing individuals involved with firearms, especially during the Wild West era.
- Gunmen became common figures in literature and films, symbolizing both danger and rebellion.
- The phrase 'gunman' often appeared in news reports during the rise of organized crime in the early 20th century.
Crime and Law
- Globally, the term denotes individuals involved in armed robbery, often heightening public fear and leading to increased security measures.
- In many countries, the presence of a gunman can lead to a significant law enforcement response, including SWAT teams and hostage negotiation teams.
- Studies show that incidents involving armed individuals often result in heightened media coverage, impacting public perception of safety.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Taxi Driver' and 'The Dark Knight' depict gunmen in complex narratives, exploring themes of morality and justice.
- Video games such as 'Call of Duty' often feature gunmen, emphasizing tactical movements and the moral dilemmas related to violence.
- The image of the โgunmanโ has been used in various music genres, often symbolizing rebellion or social issues.
Psychology
- Research indicates that individuals labeled as gunmen often have contrasting motivations, ranging from personal revenge to ideological motives.
- The psychology behind gun violence often includes factors like social isolation, exposure to violence, and mental health issues.
- Public reaction to gunmen can be driven by fear, emotional trauma, and social stigma, affecting communities long after an incident.
Legislation
- Many countries have specific laws and restrictions regarding firearms, often in direct response to incidents involving gunmen.
- Gun control debates frequently arise after high-profile incidents involving gunmen, influencing political agendas and public policy.
- Some regions have implemented community programs aiming to reduce the likelihood of gun violence by addressing underlying societal issues.
Origin of 'gunman'
The term 'gunman' originated in the early 19th century, combining the words 'gun' and 'man'. It has been used to describe individuals armed with guns in various contexts, including criminal activities and military operations.
See also: gun, gunfighter, gunfire, gunpowder, guns, gunshot, gunshots, gunslinger.