Silencer: meaning, definitions and examples
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silencer
[ ˈsaɪ.lənsər ]
sound
A device that reduces noise from a firearm when it is discharged, often attached to the end of the barrel. Silencers work by trapping and slowing down the escaping gases from the fired cartridge.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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silencer |
Typically used in the context of firearms to describe a device that reduces the noise and muzzle flash when a gun is fired. It can also have a negative connotation if associated with illegal activities.
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suppressor |
Often used interchangeably with 'silencer' but more frequently in military or technical contexts to describe a device that reduces the noise and flash of a firearm. It generally carries a more neutral connotation.
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muffler |
Commonly referred to in the context of automobiles to describe a device that reduces noise from the exhaust system.
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Examples of usage
- The assassin used a silencer on his gun to avoid attracting attention.
- The police officer equipped his weapon with a silencer for stealth operations.
person
A person or thing that suppresses or reduces something, such as a silencer of dissent or criticism.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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silencer |
Refers to a device designed to reduce the noise of a gun. It is commonly used in discussions about firearms and their components.
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suppressant |
Generally used in a medical context to refer to a drug or substance that reduces the severity of symptoms, like a cough suppressant.
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inhibitor |
Used in scientific and medical contexts to describe a substance that slows down or prevents a particular chemical reaction or process.
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Examples of usage
- The government was accused of being a silencer of free speech.
- She was seen as the silencer of creativity in the workplace.
Translations
Translations of the word "silencer" in other languages:
🇵🇹 silenciador
🇮🇳 शांत करने वाला यंत्र
🇩🇪 Schalldämpfer
🇮🇩 peredam suara
🇺🇦 глушник
🇵🇱 tłumik
🇯🇵 サイレンサー
🇫🇷 silencieux
🇪🇸 silenciador
🇹🇷 susturucu
🇰🇷 소음기
🇸🇦 كاتم الصوت
🇨🇿 tlumič
🇸🇰 tlmič
🇨🇳 消声器
🇸🇮 dušilec
🇮🇸 hljóðdeyfir
🇰🇿 дыбыс өшіргіш
🇬🇪 დამჩენი
🇦🇿 səssizləşdirici
🇲🇽 silenciador
Etymology
The term 'silencer' originated from the early 20th century, when inventor Hiram Percy Maxim patented a device for muffling the noise of firearms. However, the correct technical term for such a device is 'suppressor,' as it does not truly silence the sound but rather suppresses it. The misconception of calling it a 'silencer' has persisted in popular culture and media.
See also: silenced.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #29,342, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 29339 attributive
- 29340 halcyon
- 29341 undulate
- 29342 silencer
- 29343 sauerkraut
- 29344 tutti
- 29345 metaphysically
- ...