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Revolver: meaning, definitions and examples

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revolver

 

[ˈrɛvɒlvər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

firearm

A revolver is a type of handgun that has a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers (usually six), each holding a single cartridge. The user can manually rotate the cylinder to bring each chamber into alignment with the barrel, allowing for multiple shots to be fired without reloading.

Synonyms

firearm, gun, pistol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
revolver

Often used to describe a specific type of handgun with a rotating cylinder holding the bullets. It is commonly associated with Western films or historical contexts.

  • The sheriff drew his revolver and aimed it at the outlaw.
  • He inherited an antique revolver from his grandfather.
pistol

Refers specifically to a small handgun designed to be held in one hand. It is often used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • She carried a pistol in her purse for safety.
  • The officer drew his pistol and approached the suspect carefully.
gun

A broad term that can describe any kind of weapon that shoots bullets or projectiles. It is used in casual, everyday conversation.

  • He bought a gun for home protection.
  • The kids were playing with toy guns in the yard.
firearm

A general term used to refer to any type of gun, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Often used in legal, formal, or technical contexts.

  • The new law requires all firearm owners to register their weapons.
  • Firearm safety courses are important for responsible ownership.

Examples of usage

  • The detective pulled out his revolver and aimed it at the suspect.
  • She always kept a small revolver in her purse for self-defense.
  • The cowboy twirled his revolver before holstering it.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'revolver' comes from the Latin word 'revolvĕre', meaning 'to roll back', reflecting how the cylinder rotates.
  • The word began to be used in English in the 19th century to describe these kind of firearms.

Historical Importance

  • Revolvers became popular in the American West during the 19th century, often associated with cowboys and gunfighters.
  • The iconic Colt .45 revolver, created in 1873, became known as 'The Peacemaker' and was widely used by law enforcement and in military service.

Pop Culture

  • Revolvers are often portrayed in movies as symbols of heroism or danger, commonly used by western heroes or detectives.
  • Famous fictional characters like James Bond and Dirty Harry are often associated with revolvers, emphasizing their ruggedness and reliability.

Science and Technology

  • The design of revolvers introduced innovations in firearm technology, influencing the development of semi-automatic pistols.
  • Most revolvers operate using a double-action or single-action mechanism, affecting how the gun is fired.

Psychology

  • Owning a revolver can evoke feelings of power or control, intertwining with personal identity and societal perceptions of safety.
  • Research shows that the portrayal of firearms in media can influence viewer attitudes and beliefs about gun ownership.

Translations

Translations of the word "revolver" in other languages:

🇵🇹 revólver

🇮🇳 रिवॉल्वर

🇩🇪 Revolver

🇮🇩 revolver

🇺🇦 револьвер

🇵🇱 rewolwer

🇯🇵 リボルバー

🇫🇷 révolver

🇪🇸 revólver

🇹🇷 revolver

🇰🇷 리볼버

🇸🇦 مسدس دوار

🇨🇿 revolver

🇸🇰 revolver

🇨🇳 左轮手枪

🇸🇮 revolver

🇮🇸 revolver

🇰🇿 револьвер

🇬🇪 რევოლვერი

🇦🇿 revolver

🇲🇽 revólver

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,738, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.