Gunslinger: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a person in the Old West known for their skill with a gun, often in a romanticized or historical context.

• The movie features a legendary gunslinger who roams the desert in search of justice.
• In the Old West, gunslingers often settled disputes in high noon showdowns.

Refers to a person, typically a male, armed with a gun; often used in situations involving criminal activity or violence. Usually has a negative connotation.

• The news reported that a gunman had entered the bank and demanded money.
• The police are on the lookout for the gunman involved in last night's shooting.

Highlights someone who is very accurate with firearms. Can be used similarly to 'marksman', but sometimes carries a slightly more informal or colloquial tone.

• The sharpshooter took out his target from over 500 yards away.
• In the game, you play as a sharpshooter with incredible aim.

Describes a person who is skilled at shooting, often used in a military or competitive context. Focuses on precision and skill.

• He won the competition because he's an excellent marksman.
• The army trained him to be a top marksman, capable of hitting distant targets with ease.

Informally refers to someone who is quick with a gun and often involved in gunfights, typically used in the context of the Old West or cowboy culture.

• The legendary gunslinger strode into the saloon, ready for a duel.
• He was a famed gunslinger, known for his quick draw.

Generally used to describe a person who engages in gunfights, and is often associated with historical figures from the Old West.

• Wyatt Earp was one of the most famous gunfighters in the Wild West.
• The town needed a brave gunfighter to maintain law and order.

A less common term that can be used to describe someone who is proficient in shooting, often with a focus on skill rather than combat. It can carry a slightly formal tone.

• She was a competitive shootist, winning medals in marksmanship competitions.
• The retired shootist shared his expertise with the young apprentices.

A somewhat archaic term, often used in historical or formal contexts, to describe someone skilled with a pistol, not necessarily involved in actual gunfights.

• The gentleman was a renowned pistoleer, known for his mastery with the dueling pistol.
• The exhibition featured a skilled pistoleer demonstrating his precision.