flintlock

[ flint-lok ]

noun

1. an outmoded gunlock in which a piece of flint striking against steel produces sparks that ignite the priming.
2. a firearm with such a lock.

flintlock

/ ˈflɪntˌlɒk /

noun

1. an obsolete gunlock in which the charge is ignited by a spark produced by a flint in the hammer
2. a firearm having such a lock

Word History and Origins

Origin of flintlock¹

First recorded in 1675–85; flint + lock ¹

Example Sentences

You have to be particular about muzzle-loading a flintlock and making sure the flint is in place.

From Salon

Despite stunning advances in prosthetics, though, the military still looks on amputees the way it did in the days of flintlocks and cannonballs.

From New York Times

“A fixed-barrel gun that uses gas and a piston is now the same as a flintlock or muzzle loader,” Mr. Merino said.

From Washington Times

The rules were geared more for semiautomatic pistols than flintlock weapons, but re-enactors who fear being arrested if they publicly re-stage battles from the colonial era to the Civil War are staying off the field.

From Seattle Times

Only ten feet away, a man had appeared, a bow and quiver over his shoulder and two old-fashioned flintlock dueling pistols in his hands.

From Literature

Related Words

• cannon
• handgun
• hardware
• mortar
• piece
• pistol
• revolver
• rifle
• shotgun