automatic rifle

noun

1. a type of light machine gun capable of firing automatically or in single shots.

Word History and Origins

Origin of automatic rifle¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

From a distance, army personnel in bulletproof jackets, armed with automatic rifles, stand watch, tracking every movement.

From BBC

Bosnian police say the gunman used an automatic rifle to kill the school's employees before shooting himself, adding that he is in hospital in a critical condition.

From BBC

“As soon as I heard automatic rifle shots, I started running, too,” she said.

From New York Times

The weapons that were considered included automatic rifles like AK-47s, grenade launchers, Stinger missile systems, hand grenades, sniper rifles, ammunition, and other export-controlled arms.

From Seattle Times

We raced off towards the frontlines in his car at furious speed, an automatic rifle at his side, and the sound of incoming artillery fire booming through the open windows.

From BBC