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Gunner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gunner

[หˆษกสŒnษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military term

A gunner is a member of a military unit responsible for operating a gun or artillery piece. This role is crucial during combat situations, as the gunner must be skilled in targeting and firing weapons accurately. Gunners are trained to handle various types of firearms, from machine guns to larger artillery. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining the weapon and ensuring its readiness for use in the field.

Synonyms

artilleryman, marksman, shooter.

Examples of usage

  • The gunner took aim at the approaching enemy.
  • During the training exercise, the gunner demonstrated exceptional accuracy.
  • In the artillery unit, every gunner plays a vital role in missions.
Context #2 | Noun

sports context

In sports, a gunner typically refers to a player who is known for their shooting skills, often used in contexts like basketball or hockey. These athletes are characterized by their ability to take high-risk shots that can yield large rewards in terms of score. A gunner is often a pivotal part of their team's offensive strategy, frequently taking the most attempts to score.

Synonyms

marksman, scorer, shooter.

Examples of usage

  • The team relies on their best gunner to score points.
  • As a gunner, she took multiple shots from beyond the arc.
  • The coach instructed the gunners to be more selective with their shots.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • During World War I, gunners played crucial roles in managing artillery, impacting the outcomes of many battles.
  • In WWII, the role of the gunner evolved with advances in technology, including the introduction of aircraft gunners who operated machine guns on planes.

Pop Culture

  • In video games and films, gunners are often portrayed as heroic characters skilled in combat, enhancing their status in popular media.
  • Songs and stories sometimes romanticize the life of a gunner, depicting them as brave warriors fighting for their country.

Sports

  • In sports like soccer, players with excellent aim and shooting skills are sometimes called 'gunners,' drawing parallels to how military gunners aim their weapons.
  • The Arsenal football club's nickname 'The Gunners' refers to their historical association with armaments, reflecting a blend of sports and military tradition.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that understanding the roles of gunners in military history can influence perceptions of courage and sacrifice in young people.
  • The portrayal of gunners in media can also affect societal attitudes towards war and conflict, shaping how individuals view military service.

Origin of 'gunner'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'gunner' comes from the Middle English word 'gunne,' which means 'a heavy gun or cannon.'
  • Originally, 'gunner' referred to someone responsible for operating artillery, which became significant during wars in the 15th century.

The term 'gunner' derives from the Middle English word 'gunne', which means 'a gun'. This word has its roots in the Old French term 'gonne' and possibly the Latin 'gunda' or 'gund'. It referred to someone who operated a firearm. As firearms developed, the role of the gunner became more specialized, particularly in military contexts. By the late 19th century, the term had firmly established itself within military jargon, designating those who operated artillery and other heavy weapons. In contemporary usage, the word has expanded beyond military applications to include various contexts, such as sports, where it refers to adept shooters or players who take many attempts to score.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,489, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.