active shooter

[ ak-tiv shoo-ter ]

noun

1. a person who is presently using a gun to shoot people in a confined and populated area.

Word History and Origins

Origin of active shooter¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

“I tried to explain the difference between an active shooter and a bomb threat, but how do you explain that to a 9-year-old?”

From Slate

The first call reporting an "active shooter" came at around 9:30 a.m., according to NBC News.

From Salon

In 2019, deputies designing active shooter training in Marina del Rey accidentally started a fire while testing a flashbang trainer, a nonexplosive version of a flashbang, or stun grenade.

From Los Angeles Times

That panel’s 77-page report revealed that a total of 376 law enforcement officers descended upon the school in an uncoordinated manner, disregarding their own active shooter training.

From Salon

About 72% of the state and local officials who arrived at Robb Elementary before the gunman was killed received some form of active shooter training throughout their law enforcement careers.

From Salon