gunflint

[ guhn-flint ]

noun

1. the flint in a flintlock.

gunflint

/ ˈɡʌnˌflɪnt /

noun

1. a piece of flint in a flintlock's hammer used to strike the spark that ignites the charge

Word History and Origins

Origin of gunflint¹

First recorded in 1725–35; gun ¹ + flint

Example Sentences

Returning to the display of artefacts in neatly labelled zip-lock bags, Prof DeCorse points out the rusty gunflint, which he says was in use in England in the early 17th Century.

From BBC

The glory of the rabbits remains, but the gunflint trade was, of course, vanished.

From Project Gutenberg

An ounce of gunpowder having been found in the morning, was dried in the sun during the day, which was very fine; a steel, gunflints, and tinder made also a part of the same parcel.

From Project Gutenberg

The wines had the dry smack of gunflint and the bouquet of powder, and the company imbibed freely.

From Project Gutenberg

"It was one of those cases in which one has to resort to the gunflint."

From Project Gutenberg